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Isobar

UK //ˈaɪ.səʊ.bɑː// US //ˈaɪ.soʊ.bɑr// Pronunciation

Definition

A line on a weather map representing areas with the same atmospheric pressure.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A line on a map that shows areas of equal air pressure.

Examples

• The isobar on the weather map showed a significant drop in pressure.
• Meteorologists analyze isobars to predict storms and weather changes.
• A close spacing of isobars indicates strong winds in the forecast.
• The isobars illustrated the transition between high and low pressure systems.
• As the isobars clustered together, we anticipated severe weather ahead.

Usage notes

Used mainly in meteorology and weather forecasts. Not common in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think 'iso-bar' as a bar where everything is equal in pressure.

Collocations

• draw an isobar
• interpret an isobar
• analyze isobars

Synonyms

• pressure line
• meteorology line
• weather contour

Common mistakes

• Often confused with 'isotherm', which relates to temperature.
• Mispronounced due to unfamiliarity with scientific terms.