Definition

The highest layer of the Earth's atmosphere, located above the mesosphere, where the temperature rises as you go higher.

Example

The thermosphere is where the auroras occur, creating beautiful displays of light in the sky.

Conversation

I read an interesting article about the thermosphere the other day.

Really? I didn't even know what that was until now.

Yeah, it's the layer of the atmosphere just before outer space.

That sounds cool! I want to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thermosphere → It is formed from "thermo-" (from Greek "thermos", meaning heat) and "sphere" (from Greek "sphaira", meaning globe or ball). The word "thermosphere" refers to the layer of the Earth's atmosphere that is characterized by high temperatures, resembling a heated globe.

Memory Tip

Think of 'heat' ('thermo-') surrounding a 'globe' ('sphere') — that's why the thermosphere is the layer of the atmosphere where heat is prevalent.

Visually Confused Words