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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cap-cirrus-clouds

Which cloud name describes thin, feathery clouds made of ice crystals?

Cirrus, the high wispy clouds.

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  1. Cirrus ✔
  2. Stratus
  3. Cumulus

Why: Cirrus are high clouds made entirely of ice crystals, so they look thin, wispy and feathery. They are often the first sign of an approaching warm front.

Huh, didn't know that: The National Weather Service says high clouds form above about 20,000 feet and get the prefix cirro-.

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References

Answer: Cirrus. Cirrus are high clouds made entirely of ice crystals, so they look thin, wispy and feathery. They are often the first sign of an approaching warm front.

  1. National Weather Service Louisville: Cloud Classification www.weather.gov/lmk/cloud_classification
    Cirrus clouds are wispy, feathery, and composed entirely of ice crystals.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. National Weather Service Louisville: Cloud Classification www.weather.gov/lmk/cloud_classification
    High-level clouds occur above about 20,000 feet and are given the prefix "cirro-".
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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