Definition

Relating to the region around the South Pole or the continent of Antarctica.

Example

The Antarctic climate is extremely cold and harsh.

Conversation

Did you know that there are researchers studying the Antarctic ecosystem?

I heard about that! It's fascinating how much we can learn from such a remote place.

I can't believe how extreme the conditions are in the Antarctic region.

Right? It really shows how resilient life can be in the harshest environments.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Antarctic is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "arktikos" (from Greek, meaning of the bear, referring to the northern region). The word describes the region that is opposite to the Arctic, or 'against the bear', which is a reference to the constellation Ursa Major, known as the Great Bear.

Memory Tip

Think of 'anti-' meaning against and 'arktikos' relating to the bear, which helps you remember that 'antarctic' refers to the region opposite the bear, or the southernmost part of the Earth.

Visually Confused Words