Definition

1. Noun:
   • A stratus cloud at an intermediate altitude: An "altostratus cloud" is a type of cloud that forms a uniform, grayish or bluish sheet or layer, typically covering the sky. It is found at a medium altitude, generally between 6,500 and 20,000 feet (approximately 2 to 6 kilometers, or the referenced 2 to 3 miles).

Usage

• The term "altostratus cloud" is used in meteorology to describe a specific cloud formation. It indicates a mid-level, layered cloud that often brings overcast conditions and can precede continuous rain or snow.
• It is typically used in technical, scientific, or descriptive weather contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The forecast predicts a thick layer of altostratus cloud, which will likely lead to drizzle by evening.
  • Pilots reported flying through extensive altostratus cloud cover at 10,000 feet.

Advanced Usage

• "Altostratus" as a standalone term: In meteorological discussions, the word "altostratus" is often used without "cloud," as the context makes it clear.
  • The sky was covered with a featureless sheet of altostratus.

Variants and Related Words

• Altostratus (n): The abbreviated form of "altostratus cloud."
• Stratus (n): A low-level, gray cloud layer that often brings drizzle. "Altostratus" is the mid-level counterpart.
• Cirrostratus (n): A high-level, thin, layered cloud. Together with stratus and altostratus, it forms a family of layered clouds at different altitudes.

Synonyms

• Mid-level stratus cloud: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its altitude and layered nature.
• Sheet cloud: A less technical term describing its widespread, uniform appearance.

Related Terms and Concepts

• Nimbostratus (n): A thicker, darker, and lower stratus cloud from which continuous rain or snow falls. Altostratus can thicken into nimbostratus.
• Cloud genus: In cloud classification, "altostratus" is one of the ten main cloud genera.

Noun

1. a stratus cloud at an intermediate altitude of 2 or 3 miles