Wintery vs. Wintry — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 22, 2024
"Wintery" and "wintry" both describe something characteristic of winter; however, "wintry" is the more commonly accepted spelling in both American and British English.
Difference Between Wintery and Wintry
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The term "wintery" is often considered a variant spelling of "wintry," both adjectives relating to the characteristics or atmospheres associated with winter.
While "wintry" is the standard spelling recognized and used more frequently in literature and daily communication, "wintery" appears occasionally but is less common.
"Wintry" evokes images of cold, snowy conditions, often used to describe weather or scenes that are reminiscent of winter. Whereas "wintery," although conveying a similar sense, might be seen less formally or in less edited texts.
When discussing the linguistic preferences, "wintry" is advised in formal writing and publications. On the other hand, "wintery" might appear in more creative or informal contexts, reflecting a more phonetic spelling.
In the realm of descriptive language, both adjectives effectively set a chilly, frost-laden scene. However, "wintry" is typically chosen for its conventional acceptance. Usage in written and spoken language shows a strong preference for "wintry," especially in educational and professional settings. Meanwhile, "wintery" might be found in regional or colloquial usage, indicating a slight variation in dialect or personal style.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling
Less common variant
Standard and widely accepted spelling
Usage in Literature
Rare, mostly in informal or creative writing
Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts
Linguistic Preference
Generally avoided in formal writing
Recommended for use in formal and academic writing
Perception
May appear as a colloquial or dialectal choice
Perceived as correct and universally acceptable
Example
Wintery scenes in a novel might reflect a stylistic choice
Wintry weather is often described in weather forecasts
Compare with Definitions
Wintery
Associated with the bleak or harsh aspects of winter.
The wintery winds discouraged any outdoor activities.
Wintry
Cold, bleak, or harsh as winter can be.
Her wintry smile didn't quite reach her eyes.
Wintery
Evoking the quiet or desolate ambiance of winter.
The park had a wintery silence that was almost eerie.
Wintry
Relating to the conditions or activities usual in winter.
He enjoyed the wintry scene outside his window.
Wintery
Feeling or appearing very cold and frosty.
She wrapped up against the wintery chill.
Wintry
Characteristic of or suitable for winter.
The wintry weather made it perfect for skiing.
Wintery
Informal or less commonly used spelling variant of 'wintry'.
Some authors prefer 'wintery' for its phonetic simplicity.
Wintry
Having cold weather typical of winter.
A wintry blast swept through the city overnight.
Wintery
Pertaining to or resembling winter.
The wintery landscape sparkled under the moonlight.
Wintry
The preferred and conventional spelling in formal writing.
The poet described the wintry landscape with vivid imagery.
Wintery
Belonging to or characteristic of winter; cold.
Wintry
Characteristic of winter, especially in feeling or looking very cold and bleak
A wintry landscape
Wintery
Suggestive of winter, as in cheerlessness or coldness
A wintry welcome.
Wintry
Belonging to or characteristic of winter; cold.
Wintery
Alternative spelling of wintry
Wintry
Suggestive of winter, as in cheerlessness or coldness
A wintry welcome.
Wintery
Wintry.
Wintry
Suggestive or characteristic of winter; cold, stormy.
Wintry weather
Wintery
Characteristic of or occurring in winter;
Suffered severe wintry weather
Brown wintry grasses
Wintry
(of precipitation) Containing sleet or snow.
It will be cloudy overnight, with outbreaks of heavy rain at times. The rain may turn wintry over higher ground.
Wintry
Aged, white-haired.
Wintry
Chilling, cheerless.
A wintry remark
Wintry
Suitable to winter; resembling winter, or what belongs to winter; brumal; hyemal; cold; stormy; wintery.
Touch our chilled hearts with vernal smile,Our wintry course do thou beguile.
Wintry
Characteristic of or occurring in winter;
Suffered severe wintry weather
Brown wintry grasses
Summery weather
Summery dresses
The vernal equinox
Wintry
Devoid of warmth and cordiality; expressive of unfriendliness or disdain;
A frigid greeting
Got a frosty reception
A frozen look on their faces
A glacial handshake
Icy stare
Wintry smile
Common Curiosities
What does "wintry" mean?
"Wintry" refers to something that is typical of winter, particularly cold and icy conditions.
What kind of imagery might "wintry" evoke?
"Wintry" typically evokes imagery of snow, ice, and cold, bleak landscapes.
Is there a difference in pronunciation between "wintery" and "wintry"?
No, both words are generally pronounced the same.
Which term is preferred in journalistic writing?
"Wintry" is preferred in journalistic writing for its conventional acceptance.
Is "wintery" acceptable in formal writing?
"Wintery" is generally less preferred in formal writing; "wintry" is recommended.
Are "wintery" and "wintry" interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable but "wintry" is the preferred form in most contexts.
Which is more common, "wintery" or "wintry"?
"Wintry" is more common and widely accepted in both written and spoken English.
How should I decide whether to use "wintery" or "wintry"?
Choose "wintry" for formal and academic contexts, while "wintery" may appear in creative writing.
Do dictionaries list "wintery" as a correct spelling?
Some dictionaries list "wintery" as a variant, but "wintry" is the primary entry.
What are common synonyms for "wintry"?
Common synonyms include chilly, frosty, and icy.
What does "wintery" mean?
"Wintery" means characteristic of or resembling winter, though it is a less common spelling.
Can "wintery" be used in poetry?
Yes, "wintery" can be used in poetry, often for phonetic reasons or stylistic choice.
Does the use of "wintery" vs. "wintry" vary by region?
Yes, "wintery" might appear more in certain dialects or regional English.
Can "wintery" be seen as incorrect?
While not strictly incorrect, "wintery" is less standard than "wintry" and might be viewed as a misspelling in formal contexts.
How can using "wintry" enhance descriptive writing?
Using "wintry" can add a universally recognized and vivid winter imagery to descriptions.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
