Definition

A device that is sent into the atmosphere, usually by a balloon, to collect and send back weather information.

Example

The scientists launched a radiosonde to measure temperature and humidity at different altitudes.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a radiosonde?

Yeah, I think it's that device used for weather data, right?

Exactly! It gets sent up by a balloon to gather atmospheric information.

That's pretty cool! I didn't realize it was so important for meteorology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Radiosonde → It is formed from "radio" (from Latin *radius*, meaning ray or beam) and "sonde" (from French *sonde*, meaning probe or sounding device). The word refers to a device that uses radio signals to probe or measure atmospheric conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'ray' ('radio') that is used to 'probe' ('sonde') the atmosphere — that's what a radiosonde does.

Visually Confused Words