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Miasma: meaning, definitions and examples

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miasma

 

[ mi·as·ma ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

bad air

Miasma historically referred to a noxious form of bad air or vapor believed to cause disease. This concept was prevalent before the germ theory of disease was established. In the past, miasma was associated with foul-smelling air emanating from decomposing organic matter. It was thought to be responsible for the transmission of maladies, particularly in crowded and unsanitary conditions. Modern usage often applies the term metaphorically to describe an oppressive atmosphere or influence.

Synonyms

fumes, pollution, smog, stink

Examples of usage

  • The miasma from the swamps was unbearable.
  • In ancient times, people believed that the miasma from the decaying bodies spread illness.
  • The city was shrouded in a miasma of despair after the disaster.

Etymology

The word 'miasma' originates from the Greek word 'miasma', meaning 'pollution' or 'stain'. The term was adopted into English in the 17th century, commonly used in the context of describing the foul air associated with disease. Initially, it was invoked to explain the prevalence of ailments in certain environments, speculating that stagnant air or poisonous vapors led to illness. During the 19th century, miasma theory was a prominent belief in medical science, suggesting that diseases like cholera and malaria were spread by corrupted air. The decline of miasma theory occurred with the rise of germ theory, proposed by scientists like Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch in the late 19th century, which replaced the idea of miasma with microorganisms as causative agents of disease. Although considered obsolete in a scientific context, the term 'miasma' persists in literature and conversation to describe a metaphorical atmosphere of dread or negativity.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,500 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.