Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Usable or operative in all kinds of weather: Describes something designed, built, or capable of functioning effectively under various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, sun, or wind.

Usage

• The adjective "all-weather" is used to modify nouns, indicating that the noun it describes is not limited or hindered by weather conditions.
• It is typically placed before the noun it modifies (e.g., an all-weather [noun]).
• It describes capability and suitability, not a temporary state.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The airport installed new all-weather landing systems for safer operations in fog and rain.
  • This jacket is made from all-weather fabric, so it's perfect for hiking year-round.
  • They built an all-weather sports pitch so games are rarely canceled.

Advanced Usage

• Technical/Commercial Use: Often used in product descriptions (e.g., all-weather tires, all-weather adhesive) to denote reliability.
• Metaphorical Use: While less common, it can be used figuratively to describe something or someone very resilient or adaptable to different situations.
  • She proved to be an all-weather friend, always supportive in good times and bad.

Variants and Related Words

• All-weathers (archaic, noun): An old term for a type of heavy coat suitable for all weathers. (Note: This is a compound noun, not a direct variant of the adjective "all-weather").
• Weatherproof (adjective): Similar in meaning, often implying specific protection against rain, wind, etc.

Synonyms

• Weatherproof: Resistant to the effects of bad weather.
• All-season: Suitable for use throughout the year (common for tires).
• Hardy: Robust and capable of enduring difficult conditions.

Antonyms

• Fair-weather: Only suitable for or operative in good weather conditions.
• Seasonal: Limited to or varying with a particular season.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• All-weather friend (idiom): A loyal and dependable friend who is supportive in all circumstances, similar to "fair-weather friend" (an unreliable friend who is only present in good times).

Adjective

1. usable or operative or practiced in all kinds of weather
   • a good all-weather road
   • all-weather flying