cloud base

noun

variants or less commonly cloudbase

ˈklau̇d-ˌbās 

plural cloud bases also cloudbases

: the lower edge of a cloud or cloud system

a low cloud base

The tools of its trade include a pair of wings that can take it soaring to cloudbase or turn it into a feathered projectile capable of gliding or diving at 95 km/h …

—Peter Meredith, Australian Geographic, January–March 1990

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now