greenhouse gas

[ green-hous gas ]

noun

1. any of the gases whose absorption of solar radiation is responsible for the greenhouse effect, including carbon dioxide, methane, ozone, and the fluorocarbons.

greenhouse gas

noun

1. any gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect

greenhouse gas

1. Any of the atmospheric gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation produced by solar warming of the Earth's surface. They include carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ), nitrous oxide (N 2 O), and water vapor. Although greenhouse gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, the elevated levels especially of carbon dioxide and methane that have been observed in recent decades are directly related, at least in part, to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and the deforestation of tropical forests.

Word History and Origins

Origin of greenhouse gas¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

It's also become the largest energy producer in the world, even while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

From The Daily Beast

Under unusually blue skies in Beijing, the American and Chinese presidents vow cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

From The Daily Beast

For example, in British Columbia, greenhouse gas emissions might go up, while in Saskatchewan, they would plummet.

From The Daily Beast

When a pumpkin is sent to the landfill, it rots, emitting methane, an alarmingly potent greenhouse gas.

From The Daily Beast

Nevertheless, commensurate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions have not been made.

From The Daily Beast