autumnal

adjective

au·​tum·​nal ȯ-ˈtəm-nəl 

: of, relating to, or characteristic of autumn

autumnal weather

autumnal colors

the autumnal equinox

I am often surprised to see rising amid these trees the rounded tops of apple-trees glowing with red or yellow fruit, in harmony with the autumnal tints of the forest.

—Henry David Thoreau

autumnally

ȯ-ˈtəm-nə-lē 

adverb

These days on the verge of winter were autumnally fair, struck through with warmth until the swift lengthening of the shadows.

—John Updike

Examples of autumnal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Choose art inspired by vintage illustrations or autumnal landscapes, and opt for brass candlesticks with flickering candles over bright overhead lights. —Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2024

This Air sign is a master of diplomacy, and its season kicks off during the autumnal equinox, a day with equal amounts of light and dark, representing harmony and balance. —Valerie Mesa, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024

In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice usually falls around June 21, the winter solstice around Dec. 22, the spring equinox around March 21, and the autumnal equinox around Sept. 22. —Chantelle Lee, TIME, 31 May 2024

This citrusy flavor complements the autumnal spices and hearty oats. —Emma Phelps, Southern Living, 11 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin autumnālis, from autumnus autumn + -ālis -al entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above