At"mos*phere (&?;), n. [Gr. &?; vapor (akin
to Skr. ātman breath, soul, G. athem breath) + &?;
sphere: cf. F. atmosphère. See Sphere.]
1. (Physics) (a) The whole mass
of aëriform fluid surrounding the earth; -- applied also to the
gaseous envelope of any celestial orb, or other body; as, the
atmosphere of Mars. (b) Any gaseous
envelope or medium.
An atmosphere of cold oxygen.
Miller.
2. A supposed medium around various bodies; as,
electrical atmosphere, a medium formerly supposed to surround
electrical bodies. Franklin.
3. The pressure or weight of the air at the sea
level, on a unit of surface, or about 14.7 Ibs. to the sq. inch.
Hydrogen was liquefied under a pressure of 650
atmospheres.
Lubbock.
4. Any surrounding or pervading influence or
condition.
The chillest of social atmospheres.
Hawthorne.
5. The portion of air in any locality, or affected
by a special physical or sanitary condition; as, the atmosphere of
the room; a moist or noxious atmosphere.
