Definition
Relating to meteorology — the science that studies the atmosphere, weather, and the physical processes that produce weather conditions.
Plain English
Having to do with the weather and the study of the atmosphere.
Context Anchor
Seen in weather briefings, aviation forecasts, flight planning, and any discussion of flying conditions.
Derivation
From the Greek meteoros, meaning 'high in the air' or 'lofty,' combined with -logical, meaning 'relating to the study of.' Originally, 'meteors' referred to anything observed in the sky — including clouds, rain, and lightning — not just shooting stars. So 'meteorological' literally means 'relating to the study of things in the sky,' which fits its use today as the study of weather.
Why Pilots Care
Meteorological data directly affects go/no-go decisions, route planning, and avoidance of hazards such as icing, turbulence, and low visibility.
Intuition Check
Meteorological does not mean about meteors or space rocks here. In aviation, it means weather-related.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot checked the latest meteorological reports before departure to assess cloud cover and visibility along the route.
Example Sentence 2
Deteriorating meteorological conditions forced the flight to divert to an alternate airport.