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overcast

adjective

/oʊvəʳkɑːst/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of overcast

Having a gray, dull, or gloomy appearance due to a covering of clouds in the sky.
"The photographer preferred shooting on overcast days for soft, diffused lighting."

Detailed meaning of overcast

It refers to a weather phenomenon in which a thick layer of clouds obscures the sun, leading to reduced visibility and diminished natural light. When the sky is overcast, it gives a sense of heaviness and can create a somber or melancholic atmosphere. Overcast conditions often occur before or during rain or other precipitation, as the clouds block the sun's rays from reaching the ground. The term "overcast" is also used metaphorically to describe a person's mood or a situation that is characterized by a lack of brightness, optimism, or cheerfulness.

Example sentences containing overcast

1. The overcast sky signaled an approaching storm.
2. It was a gloomy day with an overcast sky.
3. The outdoor event was canceled due to the persistent overcast weather.
4. The landscape appeared dull and lifeless under the overcast conditions.
5. The beach was deserted under the gray overcast sky.
6. The overcast weather matched her somber mood perfectly.

History and etymology of overcast

The adjective 'overcast' derives its etymology from the combination of two elements. The first part, 'over,' suggests something that is above or covering, and the second part, 'cast,' comes from the Old Norse word 'kasta,' meaning to throw or toss. When these components are put together, 'overcast' conveys the idea of a sky that is covered or thrown with clouds, resulting in a gray, dull, or gloomy appearance. This etymology vividly captures the image of clouds casting a shadow over the sky, obscuring the sunlight and giving rise to a somber and overcast atmosphere.

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Further usage examples of overcast

1. The overcast conditions made it difficult to see far into the distance.
2. We decided to stay indoors and watch movies due to the overcast afternoon.
3. The overcast sky cast a shadow over the city, dimming its vibrancy.
4. The overcast morning made it hard to muster up enthusiasm for the day ahead.
5. The gray overcast provided a sense of calmness and tranquility.
6. Despite the overcast weather, we decided to go for a walk in the park.
7. The overcast sky dampened our plans for a picnic.
8. The overcast conditions created a sense of mystery and intrigue.
9. The sky was overcast, signaling the onset of rain.
10. The overcast weather cast a somber mood over the gathering.
11. We decided to cancel the picnic due to the overcast sky.
12. The beach looked deserted under the thick, overcast clouds.
13. The overcast conditions made it perfect for a cozy day indoors.
14. An overcast morning greeted us as we set out on our hike.
15. Despite the overcast skies, we ventured out for a walk.
16. The overcast sky matched her melancholic mood perfectly.
17. The city's skyline disappeared behind an overcast curtain.
18. His mood often mirrored the overcast weather outside.
19. The overcast day called for a steaming cup of hot cocoa.
20. The overcast atmosphere added an eerie vibe to the forest.
21. The plane took off into the overcast skies, disappearing from view.
22. Even on an overcast day, the ocean's beauty was undeniable.
23. The overcast evening set the stage for a dramatic sunset.
24. The gray, overcast backdrop was ideal for photography.
25. We decided to postpone the outdoor event due to the overcast conditions.
26. An overcast sky didn't deter us from our nature hike.
27. The overcast weather persisted throughout the weekend.
28. The overcast day seemed to match the protagonist's gloomy mood in the novel.