Miasma
(noun)
- A noxious atmosphere or influence; a pervading corrupting or unhealthy influence.
- A poisonous or noxious cloud of gas or vapor, especially one arising from decaying matter.
- A pervasive atmosphere of suspicion, gloom, or pessimism.
Origin:
Derived from the greek word 'miainein', meaning 'to pollute'.
Examples:
- The town was shrouded in a miasma of smoke from the factory.
- The political corruption was a miasma that spread through the government.
- The miasma of fear and uncertainty hung over the city after the bombing.
- The miasma from the landfill was causing health problems for nearby residents.
- The miasma of negative energy in the room was palpable and made it difficult for the meeting to proceed.