Vapour: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a visible suspension of fine particles of liquid in the air, such as steam from boiling water.

• The kettle released a cloud of vapour.
• The bathroom mirror fogged up with vapour.

Describes a thin fog with condensation near the ground, usually less dense than fog and associated with calm weather conditions.

• The morning mist gave the forest a mysterious look.
• The garden was covered in a light mist at dawn.

Refers to a slight obscuration of the lower atmosphere, typically caused by fine suspended particles such as dust, smoke, or pollution.

• The city skyline was barely visible through the haze.
• After the forest fire, a persistent haze hung in the air.

Denotes a thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at or near the earth's surface, which obscures or restricts visibility.

• Driving in the fog can be dangerous.
• The city was enveloped in heavy fog.

Typically used to describe a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature. Often refers to water vapour in the air.

• The bathroom mirror fogged up due to the water vapour.
• There is a lot of vapour in the air today.

A state of matter characterized by having neither a fixed shape nor a fixed volume. Can refer to natural or synthetic substances.

• Oxygen is a gas essential for life.
• The stove runs on natural gas.

Water in the gas phase that is produced by boiling or evaporating water. Often visible and hot.

• Steam rose from the boiling pot of water.
• The steam from the geyser was visible from a distance.

Refers to visible or strong-smelling gas, often harmful or irritating. Used when talking about exhausts, smoke, or strong chemicals.

• The car produced harmful fumes.
• He felt dizzy from the paint fumes.