weather
UK: ˈweðə | US: ˈweðər
n. the state of the atmosphere at a place and time (e.g., temperature, rain, wind)
vt. to endure or withstand exposure to the elements (e.g., "weather a storm")
vi. (of materials) to change due to exposure to weather (e.g., "wood weathers to gray")
The word "weather" traces back to Old English weder, meaning "air, sky, storm, or wind," derived from Proto-Germanic wedrą ("weather, storm"). The root weath- originally conveyed atmospheric conditions, particularly turbulent ones, while -er functioned as a noun-forming suffix. Over time, the meaning broadened to encompass all atmospheric states. The verb sense ("to withstand") metaphorically extends from enduring storms.
The weather today is sunny with a light breeze.
Ships must be built to weather harsh ocean storms.
Over time, the stone steps weathered into smooth curves.
Farmers rely on accurate weather forecasts for planting crops.
The old fence has weathered to a silvery gray.