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miasma

mi·as·ma [ mī ázmə, mee ázmə ] (plural mi·as·mas or mi·as·ma·ta [ mī ázmətə ])

noun

Definition:

1. harmful fumes: a harmful or poisonous emanation, especially one caused by burning or decaying organic matter

2. unwholesome atmosphere: an unwholesome or menacing atmosphere

[Mid-17th century. Directly or via French miasme< Greek miasma "defilement, pollution" < miainein "pollute"]

mi·as·mal adjective

mi·as·mat·ic [ m əz máttik ] adjective

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