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Air mass

UK //eə mɑːs// US //ɛr mæs// Pronunciation

Definition

A large body of air with uniform temperature and humidity characteristics.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A large body of air with similar temperature and moisture.

Examples

• The cold air mass moved in from the north, bringing snow.
• A warm air mass can lead to higher temperatures during summer.
• Meteorologists study how different air masses interact to predict storms.
• The warm and moist air mass caused heavy rainfall across the region.
• Fronts develop where two different air masses meet, changing weather dramatically.

Usage notes

Commonly used in meteorology. Not typically used in everyday conversation outside weather discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Think of 'air mass' as a giant mass of air, like a big balloon floating.

Collocations

• cold air mass
• warm air mass
• humid air mass

Synonyms

• air layer
• atmospheric mass
• weather system

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'air pressure' as they are related but distinct concepts.
• Using 'mass' as a countable noun; 'air mass' is always uncountable.
• Misunderstanding the effects of air masses on weather patterns.