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 examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The Santa Anas often bring triple-digit temperatures and a relative humidity below 10%, leading to drier fuel that can ignite more easily. Ned Kleiner, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2024 The weather service predicted offshore winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and daytime relative humidity as low as 10%, according to the weather service. Jason Green, The Mercury News, 16 Oct. 2024 In addition to the museum’s emergency staffing, preparations for Hurricane Milton included a full generator for its chiller plant, a type of centralized cooling system for buildings that would help maintain industry standards for temperature control and relative humidity. Karen K. Ho, ARTnews.com, 10 Oct. 2024 The heat index is calculated with a complex equation that factors in relative humidity and air temperature. Andrea Thompson, Scientific American, 1 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for relative humidity 

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 15 Nov. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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