HARMATTAN Meaning and
Definition
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Harmattan refers to a dry and dusty wind that blows across West Africa, particularly during the winter months of December to February. This word is derived from the Akan language, specifically from the Twi word "haramata," meaning "winter" or "coldness."
The harmattan is characterized by its distinctive features. It carries large amounts of fine dust particles picked up from the Sahara Desert as it moves across the region. This wind is usually cool, dry, and persistent, and it often lowers humidity levels, making the air feel dry and parched. The harmattan is known for its impact on visibility, as it can create a hazy or foggy atmosphere due to the dust particles suspended in the air.
The effects of the harmattan extend beyond the meteorological aspects. It affects both humans and the environment. People in the affected regions often experience various health issues, such as dry skin, chapped lips, respiratory problems, and exacerbated allergies. The dry air can also cause dehydration. Additionally, it negatively impacts agriculture since the dry wind can damage crops and reduce their yield.
Despite its challenges, the harmattan also brings some benefits. It helps control pests and diseases that thrive in humid conditions, making it beneficial for farmers to some extent. Additionally, the harmattan wind provides cool relief from the hot weather experienced in West Africa for the rest of the year.
In conclusion, the harmattan refers to a dry and dusty wind in West Africa, characterized by low humidity and poor visibility. While it poses challenges to human health and agriculture, it also has certain advantages in pest control and providing respite from the heat.
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The hot dry wind from the great desert of Africa in Dec., Jan., and Feb.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HARMATTAN
- garmattan
- barmattan
- narmattan
- jarmattan
- uarmattan
- yarmattan
- hzrmattan
- hsrmattan
- hwrmattan
- hqrmattan
- haemattan
- hadmattan
- hafmattan
- hatmattan
- ha5mattan
- ha4mattan
- harnattan
- harkattan
- harjattan
- harmatyan
- parmatta
- Ramattan
- harmetan
Etymology of HARMATTAN
The word "harmattan" originates from the Akan language, which is primarily spoken in Ghana and parts of Ivory Coast. The term is derived from the Akan words "harama", meaning "to tear or rip", and "atan", which translates to "twist". The combination of these words describes the characteristic dry and dusty winds that accompany the harmattan season in West Africa. The word "harmattan" has been adopted into English and is widely used to refer to the dry and dusty trade winds that blow southward from the Sahara across West Africa, primarily during the winter months.
Similar spelling word for HARMATTAN
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