adjective
autumnal
aw-TUM-nuhl/ɔːˈtʌmnəl/
Relating to or characteristic of autumn.
The woods glow with autumnal colors beneath a clear October sky.
Etymology
The pieces mean “pertaining to autumn.” English first used the adjective for things maturing or blooming in that season, then more broadly for whatever belongs to or suggests autumn.
In context
dark, moody, autumnal landscapes I loved so much. But I found myself unable to conjure up the same melancholic feelings. Instead, my sketchbook was filled with spring, with light and lush greenery.
More examples
- A cool autumnal breeze blew across the lake.
- The poem has a quiet, autumnal mood.
- An autumnal display of pumpkins filled the shop window.
Similar words
- fall
- Is the common American seasonal term when used before a noun.
- late-season
- Describes timing more generally and need not mean autumn.