cap cloud: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cap cloud” mean?
A stationary cloud that forms over the top of a mountain or hill, resembling a cap or hat.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A stationary cloud that forms over the top of a mountain or hill, resembling a cap or hat.
In meteorology, a type of orographic cloud that forms when moist air is forced upward over elevated terrain, cools, and condenses. It can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that sits atop something else like a cap.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage; it is a standard scientific term in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral scientific descriptor in both.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in technical contexts for both.
Grammar
How to Use “cap cloud” in a Sentence
The [mountain name] was capped by a cloud.A cap cloud formed over the peak.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cap cloud” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Ben Nevis is often cap-clouded in the morning.
American English
- The summit cap-clouded just before the storm.
adjective
British English
- The cap-cloud formation was particularly striking.
American English
- We observed cap-cloud conditions on the volcano.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in meteorology, physical geography, and environmental science texts.
Everyday
Very rare; might be used by hikers or weather enthusiasts.
Technical
Standard term in meteorological reports and aviation weather briefings.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cap cloud”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cap cloud”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cap cloud”
- Confusing it with 'funnel cloud' or 'wall cloud'.
- Using it for any cloud near a mountain, rather than specifically one capping the summit.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, a cap cloud is a specific type of cloud formed by orographic lift, while fog is a cloud at ground level formed by different processes.
Typically, cap clouds themselves produce light drizzle or virga at most. Heavier precipitation usually comes from larger cloud systems associated with the cap.
It can be stationary and last as long as the wind and moisture conditions that formed it persist, from hours to days.
Yes, it is an open compound noun where 'cap' functions as a noun adjunct modifying 'cloud'.
A stationary cloud that forms over the top of a mountain or hill, resembling a cap or hat.
Cap cloud is usually technical / scientific in register.
Cap cloud: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæp ˌklaʊd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæp ˌklaʊd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a mountain wearing a cloudy cap to keep its head warm.
Conceptual Metaphor
CLOUDS ARE HATS/GARMENTS (for mountains).
Practice
Quiz
A 'cap cloud' is most closely associated with: