été

Été, or summer, is the warmest season of the year in many parts of the world. In the temperate zones, it is typically associated with longer days and higher average temperatures. In the Northern Hemisphere, astronomical summer begins at the summer solstice (around June 21) and ends at the autumnal equinox (around September 23). Meteorological summer, used for climate statistics, runs from June 1 to August 31. In the Southern Hemisphere, seasons are opposite, so summer occurs roughly from December to February.

Etymology: The French word été derives from Latin aestatem via Old French esté, reflecting the season's name across Romance languages. It is cognate with the Italian estate (summer) and related forms in Spanish and Portuguese.

Climate and geography: Summer climate varies by latitude and geography; temperate summers are warm to hot, with long daylight hours, especially near the solstices. Tropical regions experience heat year round with distinct wet and dry seasons rather than markedly defined summer months. Weather can include heat waves, droughts, heavy rainfall, or storms, often influenced by regional patterns such as monsoons. The season is marked by increased solar radiation and, in many places, higher humidity.

Culture and daily life: Summer is often linked to outdoor leisure, vacations, and festivals. In many countries schools close for a summer break, and tourism and agricultural calendars drive economic activity. In literature and art, summer motifs emphasize vitality, growth, and brightness.