The word "wintry" is used to describe something that is reminiscent of winter or characteristic of winter. It is spelled /ˈwɪntri/ in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress placed on the first syllable. The "w" at the beginning of the word is followed by the short "i" sound, represented by the letter "i". The middle consonant cluster consists of "n" and "t", followed by the vowel sound represented by the letter "r" and a final "y" sound to indicate the adjective form of the word.
Wintry is an adjective that refers to something related to winter or characteristic of the season. It describes anything that evokes the cold, harsh, and bleak atmosphere typically associated with winter.
When discussing weather conditions, wintry refers to extreme coldness, frost, snow, ice, and other related elements. It encompasses the frigid temperatures, heavy snowfall, freezing winds, and icy conditions that one may encounter during winter months. These wintry weather conditions often create a distinct ambiance, transforming the surroundings into a pristine, serene, and sometimes enchanting landscape.
Furthermore, wintry can also be used metaphorically to describe something that exhibits qualities reminiscent of winter. For instance, wintry silence indicates a hushed or quiet atmosphere, similar to how winter often seems to calm the environment. Similarly, wintry colors refer to shades commonly found during winter like icy blues, whites, and greys.
In a figurative sense, wintry may be used to describe someone's demeanor or mood. If someone is said to have a wintry disposition, it implies that they are distant, cold, or lacking warmth and affection.
Overall, wintry is a versatile word that finds its application in various contexts and is primarily used to capture the essence, characteristics, and associations related to winter and its impact on weather, landscapes, and emotions.
Pert. to winter; cold; stormy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word wintry traces its origins back to the Old English word winterlic, which was derived from the root winter. Winter itself has cognates in several other Germanic languages, such as Old High German wintar and Old Norse vetr. The Old English term winterlic referred to anything related to or characteristic of Winter. Over time, through phonetic changes and linguistic evolution, winterlic eventually transformed into the modern English word wintry.