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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
A day/night cycle was simulated, with 12 hours of darkness at 25 °C (77 °F) and either 60% or 90% relative humidity, followed by 12 hours of simulated sunlight at 35 °C (95 °F) and 30% humidity.
—New Atlas, 18 July 2024
This number is calculated using the air temperature and relative humidity.
—Sherri Gordon, Health, 15 July 2024
Gusty northerly winds and low relative humidity will combine for critical fire weather conditions through Wednesday evening.
—Hanh Truong, Sacramento Bee, 2 July 2024
Afterward, the air flows over a heating coil, which then raises the temperature and significantly lowers the relative humidity.
—Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 19 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for relative humidity
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'relative humidity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 Aug. 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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about relative humidity
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