Definition

A device used to measure and record the speed and direction of winds in the upper atmosphere, which is tracked by radio signals.

Example

Meteorologists use a rawinsonde to gather data about wind patterns high in the sky.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a rawinsonde?

Yeah, it's that instrument used to measure upper-air winds, right?

Exactly! They track it with radar to get wind velocity information.

That's pretty cool — I didn't realize it was so advanced!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rawinsonde is a compound word formed from "rawin" (a blend of "radio" and "wind") and "sonde" (from French, meaning a probe or sounding device). The term refers to a device that uses radio signals to measure atmospheric conditions, particularly wind, at various altitudes.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'probe' ('sonde') that uses 'radio' signals to measure 'wind' — that's what a rawinsonde does.

Visually Confused Words