The Inuit have many different words for snow depending on what kind it is. Living in the North, where snow is a part of everyday life, it’s essential to learn each meaning in order to survive.

Anniu- falling snow

Api- ground snow

Qali- snow on the boughs of trees

Qamaniq- when snow makes a bowl-like depression under a tree

Siqoqtoaq- sun crusted snow

Siqoq- drifting, smoke-like snow

Anamana- space between snowdrifts and an obstruction

Upsik- wind-beaten snow

Mapsuk- overhanging drift

Kaioglaq- sharply etched wind-eroded snow

Tumarinyiq- ripple type snowdrift

Kalutoganiq- arrow-shaped snowdrift

Kimoaqtruk- snowdrift

Pukak- bottom snow layer

Salumaroaq- smooth surface of fine particles

Natalgonaq- rough surface of fine particles

Quinzhee- snow shelter

In the UK we use only one word to define the white stuff but this by no means limits its meanings:

Snow- road closures

Snow- train delays

Snow- exhausted social media status updates

Snow- half of workforce arrive late to work

Snow- flight delays

Snow- flight cancellations

Snow- Instagram photos of snow uploaded ad nauseam

Snow- inadequate footwear

Snow- school closures

Snow- power outages

Snow- delivery delays

The snow is coming down properly in Londontown at the minute and I will say this, it looks mighty pretty!