Winter

Definition

Winter is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the coldest season of the year, occurring between autumn and spring. As a verb, it means to spend the winter season in a particular place, often for shelter or survival.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪn.tɚ/
• Respelling: WIN-tur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɪn.tə/
• Respelling: WIN-tuh

Etymology

The word "winter" originates from Old English "winter," derived from Proto-Germanic "*wintruz," and ultimately from Proto-Indo-European "*wend-" meaning "wet" or "water." The term reflects the season's association with cold and precipitation.

Derivatives

• Wintery (adjective)
• Winterize (verb)
• Wintering (noun/verb)
• Wintertime (noun)
• Overwinter (verb)

Synonyms

• Coldsnap
• Frost
• Hibernation

Antonyms

• Summer
• Heatwave
• Warmth

Usage

The word "winter" is commonly used to describe the season, as in "The winter this year has been unusually cold." As a verb, it is used in contexts like "The birds winter in warmer climates."

Related Terms

• Season: One of the four divisions of the year.
• Cold: A low temperature, characteristic of winter.
• Hibernate: To spend the winter in a dormant state.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The coldest season of the year: Refers to the period between autumn and spring, marked by low temperatures.
  • Example: "Winter is the time for snow and holidays."
• A metaphor for hardship or decline: Refers to a figurative state of dormancy or difficulty.
  • Example: "The company faced its financial winter last year."

Verb

• To spend the winter in a specific place: Often used for animals or people seeking shelter during the season.
  • Example: "Many retirees winter in Florida."