miasma

Meaning

An oppressive or unhealthy atmosphere; historically, noxious air once believed to spread disease.

Origin / Etymology

From Greek miasma, pollution or stain, from miainein, to pollute.

Synonyms

fumes pollution stench fog

Antonyms

freshness purity clarity cleanliness

Example Sentence

"Each winter a toxic miasma of vehicular and stubble-burning smoke settles over the Indo-Gangetic plain."

🎯 UPSC Usage

Vivid for GS3 environment answers on air pollution and public health. It also works figuratively in essays, for example, 'a miasma of corruption can erode citizens' faith in public institutions.'

Relevant Subjects

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