Climate refers to the long-term pattern of weather in a particular area. It's different from weather, which describes short-term atmospheric conditions.
The term "climate" can also be used metaphorically to describe:
1. The prevailing trend of public opinion or social conditions
2. The general attitude or mood of a group or organization
3. In ecology, the overall environmental conditions affecting an ecosystem
Key climate classifications include tropical, dry, temperate, continental, and polar climates.