weath·er / ˈwe[voicedth]ər/ • n. the state of the atmosphere at a place and time as regards heat, cloudiness, dryness, sunshine, wind, rain, etc.: if the weather's good, we can go for a walk. ∎  a report on such conditions as broadcast on radio or television. ∎  cold, wet, and unpleasant or unpredictable atmospheric conditions; the elements: stone walls provide shelter from wind and weather. ∎  [as adj.] denoting the side from which the wind is blowing, esp. on board a ship; windward: the weather side of the yacht. Contrasted with lee.• v. [tr.] 1. wear away or change the appearance or texture of (something) by long exposure to the atmosphere: [tr.] his skin was weathered almost black by his long outdoor life | [as adj.] (weathered) chemically weathered rock. ∎  [intr.] (of rock or other material) be worn away or altered by such processes: the ice sheet preserves specimens that would weather away more quickly in other regions. ∎  [usu. as n.] (weathering) Falconry allow (a hawk) to spend a period perched on a block in the open air.2. come safely through (a storm). ∎  withstand (a difficulty or danger): this year has tested industry's ability to weather recession. ∎  Sailing (of a ship) get to the windward of (a cape or other obstacle).3. make (boards or tiles) overlap downward to keep out rain. ∎  (in building) slope or bevel (a surface) to throw off rain.PHRASES: in all weathers in every kind of weather, both good and bad.keep a weather eye on observe very carefully, esp. for changes or developments.under the weather inf. slightly unwell or in low spirits.