How Do You Spell VIRGA?

Pronunciation: [vˈɜːɡə] (IPA)

The word "virga" is spelled with the letter "v" followed by "i", "r", "g", and "a". In phonetic transcription, its pronunciation is /ˈvɜːrɡə/, with stress on the first syllable. "Virga" is a meteorological term that refers to a streak or shaft of precipitation that falls from a cloud but evaporates before it reaches the ground. The correct spelling of this word is important to avoid confusion with the similar-sounding word "verga", which means "rod" or "strip" in Spanish.

VIRGA Meaning and Definition

1. Virga refers to a meteorological phenomenon characterized by precipitation that evaporates before reaching the ground. It occurs when rain or snow falls from the clouds but doesn't reach the Earth's surface due to atmospheric conditions. This term is derived from the Latin word "virga," meaning "rod" or "stripe," which reflects the visual appearance of this weather phenomenon.

   Virga is commonly observed in regions with dry climates or during times of low humidity, excessively dry air, or strong winds. As precipitation descends from the clouds, it encounters the drier atmosphere close to the ground. The evaporative process usually occurs due to the high temperatures or low humidity at lower altitudes. The droplets or ice crystals that form the precipitation vaporize or sublimate, turning directly into gas, before they can reach the surface. As a result, it appears as thin and wispy streaks or trails descending from the clouds, resembling hanging curtains or tails.

   Virga can be easily identified by its unique visual characteristics. These vertical streaks are often smooth-edged and can be seen in different shades of grey, white, or even colored if sunlight interacts with the particles. Observing virga can be an indication of ongoing weather changes and can be a factor in determining atmospheric conditions such as humidity levels or wind strength.

2. Penis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for VIRGA

• cirga
• birga
• girga
• firga
• vurga
• vjrga
• vkrga
• vorga
• v9rga
• v8rga
• viega
• vidga
• vifga
• vitga
• vi5ga
• vi4ga
• virfa
• virva
• virba

Etymology of VIRGA

The word "virga" has Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin word "virgula", which means "twig" or "rod". In Latin, "virgula" was used in various contexts, including representing a young girl, a slender branch, or a streak of light. Over time, the word "virgula" evolved into "virga" in Late Latin and then entered English, where it acquired specific meanings related to meteorology and music. In meteorology, "virga" refers to rain falling from a cloud but evaporating before reaching the ground, while in music, it denotes a stroke or downward movement made with a conducting baton.

Similar spelling words for VIRGA

• Virgie,
• virgo,
• viers,
• viars,
• virago.

Plural form of VIRGA is VIRGAS