Definition

Relating to the effect of the Coriolis force on the movement of air or water in the atmosphere or oceans.

Example

The geostrophic wind is an important concept in meteorology that helps predict weather patterns.

Conversation

Have you heard about the geostrophic winds that affect ocean currents?

Yeah, it's fascinating how they change the flow of water.

I read that they are influenced by the Coriolis force too.

Exactly! It's amazing how nature works in such complex ways.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Geostrophic → It is formed from "geo-" (from Greek "gē", meaning earth) and "strophic" (from Greek "strophikos", meaning turning or twisting). The word describes the turning or twisting of atmospheric or oceanic currents due to the Earth's rotation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'geo-' meaning earth and 'strophic' relating to turning — this helps you remember that 'geostrophic' refers to the turning of currents related to the Earth.

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