Definition

A type of high cloud that is thin and often covers the sky, sometimes creating a halo effect around the sun or moon.

Example

The sky was covered with cirrostratus clouds, giving it a soft, hazy appearance.

Conversation

Have you seen the sky today?

Yeah, it looks kind of hazy and cool.

I think it might be cirrostratus clouds.

That makes sense! They really do create a neat effect.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cirrostratus is formed from "cirrus" (from Latin, meaning a curl or a lock of hair) and "stratus" (from Latin, meaning layered or spread out). The word describes a type of cloud that appears as thin, wispy layers, resembling curls of hair spread across the sky.

Memory Tip

Imagine wispy curls of hair ('cirrus') spread out like a blanket ('stratus') across the sky — that's what cirrostratus clouds look like.

Visually Confused Words