miasma
noun
An unpleasant or unhealthy atmosphere or smell; a poisonous atmosphere formerly believed to cause disease. Figuratively, any oppressive atmosphere.
Etymology
From Greek "miasma" (pollution, stain), from "miainein" (to pollute). Before germ theory, miasmas were blamed for epidemics.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"A miasma of corruption hung over the administration."
- 2.
"The miasma rising from the swamp was overwhelming."
- 3.
"Industrial pollution created a miasma that darkened the city."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Miasma theory dominated medicine for centuries. Doctors wore beak-shaped masks filled with flowers during plagues, believing sweet smells would counteract disease-causing miasmas. This was wrong, but the masks accidentally provided some protection.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 6 letters (M, I, A, S, M, A)
Scrabble Value: 10 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "MIASMA" appears in many related words.
Put Your Vocabulary to the Test!
Ready to find words like "miasma" in a puzzle? Try today's Zabble challenge!