Natural Phenomena Vocabulary

in its original condition; unspoiled

“The pristine wilderness had never seen human footprints.”

Origin: Latin pristinus (former, original)

of the earliest time in history

“The primeval forest seemed untouched by time.”

Origin: Latin primaevus, from primus (first) + aevum (age)

of or relating to trees; living in trees

“Monkeys are arboreal creatures adapted to life in the canopy.”

Origin: Latin arboreus (of trees), from arbor (tree)

relating to or living in water

“Aquatic ecosystems are particularly sensitive to pollution.”

Origin: Latin aquaticus (living in water), from aqua (water)

of or on dry land; earthly

“Terrestrial life evolved from aquatic ancestors.”

Origin: Latin terrestris (of the earth), from terra (earth)

positioned in or relating to the sky or outer space

“Ancient peoples studied celestial movements carefully.”

Origin: Latin caelestis (heavenly), from caelum (sky, heaven)

characterized by strong and turbulent winds

“The tempestuous seas forced the ship to seek harbor.”

Origin: Latin tempestuosus (stormy), from tempestas (storm, weather)

unpleasantly cold or wet; harsh

“The game was cancelled due to inclement weather.”

Origin: Latin inclement- (harsh), from in- (not) + clemens (mild)

health-giving; healthy

“The salubrious mountain air restored her health.”

Origin: Latin salubris (healthful), from salus (health)

relating to the pleasant aspects of the countryside

“The bucolic scenery provided a peaceful retreat from urban life.”

Origin: Latin bucolicus, from Greek boukolikos (of herdsmen), from boukolos (cowherd)

associated with country life; of shepherds

“The pastoral landscape inspired romantic poets.”

Origin: Latin pastoralis (of shepherds), from pastor (shepherd)

consisting of or associated with woods; wooded

“The sylvan setting provided the perfect backdrop for the wedding.”

Origin: Latin silvanus (of the woods), from silva (forest)