Mist: meaning, definitions and examples

Mist refers to tiny water droplets suspended in the air, creating a light, almost transparent, cloud. It usually forms near the ground in the early morning or evening.

• The hills were covered in a light morning mist
• She could barely see through the mist

Fog is thicker and denser than mist, consisting of more concentrated water droplets. It significantly reduces visibility and is often found in coastal areas, valleys, and during cooler weather.

• The airport was closed due to heavy fog
• Driving through the fog was challenging and required extra caution

Haze describes the atmospheric phenomenon where dust, smoke, or moisture obscures the sky, creating a blurry effect. It often causes a reduction in visual clarity but is less dense than fog.

• The city was shrouded in a dirty haze
• A summer haze made the distant mountains appear faint

Smog is a type of intense air pollution, typically a mix of smoke and fog, often found in densely populated urban areas. It has a negative connotation due to the health risks it poses.

• The city issued an air quality alert due to high levels of smog
• Residents were advised to stay indoors until the smog cleared up

Used primarily as a verb, describing the action of spraying a fine liquid. It can also mean to cover something in fine droplets.

• She misted her plants with water every morning
• The hairstylist misted her client's hair with some setting spray

Similar to 'cloud up', this is often used when something becomes covered in condensation, especially glasses or windows, making visibility poor.

• The car windows fogged up during the rainy drive
• Her goggles fogged up in the humid gym

Use this phrase when describing the process of something, particularly glass, becoming difficult to see through due to moisture or condensation.

• The bathroom mirror clouded up after his hot shower
• Her glasses clouded up when she entered the warm house

Use this phrase when something becomes slightly obscured or blurry, often due to fine particles or light moisture. This term can also be used metaphorically for unclear thoughts or memories.

• The landscape hazed over in the distance due to the heat
• His memories of that day have hazed over with time