Define "visibility" in meteorological terms.

Visibility in meteorological terms refers to the distance at which an observer can discern a specific object clearly, which is directly influenced by various weather conditions. These conditions, such as fog, rain, snow, or haze, can reduce the clarity and contrast of an object with respect to its background, leading to a decrease in visibility. For instance, a thick fog can limit visibility to just a few meters, making it difficult to see even nearby landmarks, while clear weather conditions can allow visibility to extend for miles.

Understanding visibility is crucial for various sectors, particularly aviation and transportation, where safety is heavily dependent on how far ahead one can see. Thus, accurate measurement and assessment of visibility are necessary for operational planning and safety management in these fields. The importance of weather conditions in determining visibility underscores the relevance of this definition within meteorology.