Meaning & Definition of word "Virga"
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Virga
/ˈvɜrɡə/
noun:
- 1. A streak or shaft of rain that falls from a cloud but evaporates before reaching the ground.
- Example: The virga hung in the sky like a curtain, promising rain that would never reach the parched earth.
- 2. In botany, a term referring to a slender branch or twig.
- Example: The virga of the tree swayed gently in the breeze, adding to the natural beauty of the forest.
- 3. A rod or wand, especially in the context of weather phenomena.
- Example: The scientist used a virga to demonstrate the principles of atmospheric pressure during the lecture.
Etymology
Latin, meaning 'twig' or 'branch'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
virga clouds:
Clouds that exhibit virga, appearing as if they are raining.
observe virga:
To look for the occurrence of virga in the sky.
virga effect:
The visual impact of virga as it stretches from the clouds.
Related Words
precipitation:
Any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from clouds.
evaporation:
The process of turning from liquid into vapor.
Slang Meanings of virga
Meaning: A light and brief rain that doesn’t reach the ground.
Example Sentence: It was just virga, not enough to get the ground wet.