Fumes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fumes

[fjuːmz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

air pollution

Fumes are gases or smoke that are produced by things such as cars, factories, or fires and that are harmful to breathe.

Synonyms

exhaust, smoke, vapors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fumes	Used to describe unpleasant or dangerous gases usually emitted as a result of a chemical process or combustion. The painters had to wear masks to protect themselves from the toxic fumes. The car accident caused a leak that released harmful fumes into the air.
smoke	Describes visible particles mixed with gases, usually as a result of burning something. The fire produced thick black smoke, making it hard to breathe. Cigarette smoke can be harmful to both smokers and those around them.
vapors	Used to describe any visible or invisible gas or steam, often arising from a liquid. The bathroom mirror was fogged up from the hot water vapors. Industrial processes can emit vapors that need to be controlled to prevent environmental harm.
exhaust	Specifically refers to the gases expelled from an engine, especially vehicles. The city's air pollution can largely be attributed to car exhaust emissions. He had to fix the exhaust system to reduce the noise and pollution from his car.

Examples of usage

The fumes from the factory were causing health problems for the nearby residents.
He was coughing due to the toxic fumes coming from the exhaust pipe.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

expressing anger

If someone fumes about something, they express their anger about it in a way that is obvious to others.

Synonyms

rage, seethe, storm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
fumes	use when referring to smoke or gases that are unpleasant to breathe in, often indicating pollution or toxicity. Can also metaphorically describe someone being very upset, although less common. The car's exhaust fumes were thick and black. She was fuming after she found out someone had stolen her lunch.
seethe	best used when referring to quietly intense anger, where the individual may not express their feelings outwardly but is deeply upset internally. She was seething with anger but managed to keep her voice calm. He could only seethe as his coworker took credit for his work.
rage	appropriate for describing intense and violent anger. It often implies a loss of control and can be used in both serious and casual contexts. He flew into a rage when he saw the damage to his car. Rage filled her heart when she heard the terrible news.
storm	can be used to describe a person’s forceful and angry reaction, often involving loud, aggressive behavior. It can also be used in a literal sense to describe severe weather conditions. She stormed out of the room after the argument. The company faced a storm of criticism following the controversial decision.

Examples of usage

She was fuming about the unfair treatment she had received at work.
He fumed silently, unable to control his frustration.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fumes'

The word 'fumes' originated from Middle English 'fumys' and Old French 'fum' meaning 'smoke'. The use of 'fumes' to refer to gases or vapors started in the 16th century. Over time, it became associated with air pollution and expressions of anger.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,093, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11090 regained
11091 childish
11092 poisoned
11093 fumes
11094 pounding
11095 tying
11096 nostrils
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