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relative humidity
noun
: the ratio of the amount of water vapor actually present in the air to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature
Examples of relative humidity in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
These include , low relative humidity, dry fuels and warm temperatures.
—
Anna Skinner, Newsweek, 7 Feb. 2025
Meanwhile, a Red Flag Warning is in effect in Huerfano and Las Animas counties, reflecting relative humidity as low as 10%, daytime temps of 70 degrees or higher and punishing winds that could gust up to 60 mph.
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Max Levy, The Denver Post, 7 Feb. 2025
The index tracks temperature, relative humidity and wind speeds, all factors that contribute to the likelihood of fire.
—
Evan Bush, NBC News, 28 Jan. 2025
Gusts from the east were at one point blowing at nearly 30 mph around Otay Mountain and the relative humidity was just 2 percent.
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Alex Riggins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Jan. 2025
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Word History
First Known Use
1819, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of relative humidity was
in 1819
Dictionary Entries Near relative humidity
Cite this Entry
“Relative humidity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relative%20humidity. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
relative humidity
noun
: the amount of water vapor actually present in the air compared to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature
Medical Definition
relative humidity
noun
: the ratio of the amount of water vapor actually present in the air to the greatest amount possible at the same temperature compare absolute humidity
More from Merriam-Webster on relative humidity
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about relative humidity
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