miasma

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   unhealthy vapors rising from the ground or other sources

   The miasma of the marshes.

2. 2
   noun

   an unwholesome atmosphere

   The novel spun a miasma of death and decay.

3. 3
   noun

   A noxious atmosphere or emanation once thought to originate from swamps and waste, and to cause disease.

   There was an earthy smell, as of some dry miasma, which came through the fouler air.

First attested in 1665. From Ancient Greek μίασμα (míasma, “stain; pollution”).

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