El Niño phenomenon
OTHER
An irregular climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, causing widespread changes in global weather patterns.
The El Niño phenomenon brings heavy rainfall and flooding to parts of South America each time it occurs.
The El Niño phenomenon brings heavy rainfall and flooding to parts of South America each time it occurs.
Etymology
The term "El Niño" comes from Spanish, meaning "the little boy" or "the Christ Child". Peruvian fishermen named it in the 19th century because it typically peaks around Christmas time.
Memory Aid
Connect "Niño" (Spanish for boy) to warm ocean water: think of a little boy warming his hands in the unusually warm Pacific water around Christmas to remember when and where it occurs.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Quick answers
What does El Niño phenomenon mean?
El Niño phenomenon means: An irregular climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, causing widespread changes in global weather patterns.
How do you pronounce El Niño phenomenon?
El Niño phenomenon: /el ˈniːnjoʊ fɪˈnɒmɪnən/
How is El Niño phenomenon used in a sentence?
The El Niño phenomenon brings heavy rainfall and flooding to parts of South America each time it occurs.