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El Niño
/ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/
climatic phenomenon
The El Niño event caused severe droughts in Australia.
An instance of the El Niño phenomenon led to significant dry conditions in Australia.
technical
A periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, disrupting global weather patterns.
Scientists monitor El Niño to predict its impact on global weather systems.
Researchers track El Niño to forecast changes in worldwide climate conditions.
El Niño typically occurs every two to seven years.
This climatic event generally happens at intervals of two to seven years.
El Niño is Spanish for 'the boy' and was named by Peruvian fishermen in reference to the Christ child, as it often peaks around Christmas.
Collocations
El Niño eventa specific occurrence of the phenomenonLa Niñathe opposite phase, characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Distinguish from La Niña
El Niño refers to warming of Pacific waters, while La Niña involves cooling. Both significantly impact global weather patterns.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
When discussing El Niño, specify whether you are referring to the climatic phenomenon or the original Spanish term, as the context clarifies the meaning.
Word Origin
From Spanish 'El Niño' (the boy), originally referring to the Christ child, as the phenomenon often peaks around Christmas. The term was adopted by Peruvian fishermen in the 19th century.
Usage Notes
El Niño is part of the broader El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which also includes La Niña. It is crucial for climate prediction and agricultural planning.
Word Breakdown
El
the (definite article in Spanish)
rootNiño
boy (in Spanish)
rootEnglish Dictionary