Miasmal
/maɪˈæz.məl/noun
Relating to or resembling a miasma; foul, noxious, or pestilential.
Did you know?Before germ theory, a “miasma” was thought to be a poisonous vapor rising from rot and disease, so words like this carry the ghost of an entire pre-scientific theory of sickness.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μίασμα (míasma)
“A stain, pollution, or defilement; later, a noxious exhalation.”
Late Latin
Latin
miasma
“A foul vapor or pollution.”
17th Century
English
miasma
“A harmful vapor or pestilential exhalation believed to cause disease.”
19th Century
English
miasmal
“Pertaining to or resembling a miasma; foul or unhealthy.”