Plain English Meaning

Water turning into invisible vapor and mixing into the air. As it does, it pulls heat out of whatever it leaves behind, which is why wet things feel cool as they dry.

Full Definition

The process by which liquid water changes into water vapor and enters the surrounding air. Evaporation absorbs heat from the liquid and the surrounding environment, producing a cooling effect. The rate of evaporation depends on temperature, humidity, wind, and the amount of exposed water surface.

Context Anchor

Seen in weather discussions about moisture, humidity, clouds, fog, and temperature changes near the ground.