mist
10 synonyms for mist, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A cloud of tiny water droplets floating near the ground, thinner than fog.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A cloud of tiny water droplets floating near the ground, thinner than fog.
“A cold mist settled over the valley at dawn.”
How to use mist
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
morning mist
a mist of spray
eyes misted over
Etymology
From Old English mist, "mist, fog, or dimness," from an ancient Germanic root meaning "cloud" or "drizzle."
Full origin of mist →Frequently asked questions
What does “mist” mean?
The word “mist” means a cloud of tiny water droplets floating near the ground, thinner than fog. In plain terms, a light, hazy cloud of moisture in the air, or the act of spraying fine droplets.
How do you pronounce “mist”?
“Mist” is pronounced mihst (/mɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “mist” in a sentence?
Here is “mist” used in a sentence: “A cold mist settled over the valley at dawn.”
What part of speech is “mist”?
Depending on how it is used, “mist” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “mist” come from?
The word “mist” comes from Old English. From Old English mist, "mist, fog, or dimness," from an ancient Germanic root meaning "cloud" or "drizzle.".
Is “mist” a common word?
“Mist” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “mist” have?
“Mist” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a cloud of tiny water droplets floating near the ground, thinner than fog.
What is the difference between mist and fog?
Mist and fog are both clouds of tiny water droplets near the ground, but mist is thinner and reduces visibility less than fog. The distinction is mainly one of density and how far you can see through it.
What is the difference between mist and drizzle?
Mist consists of fine droplets suspended in the air rather than falling, while drizzle is very light rain that actually falls to the ground. Mist reduces visibility without necessarily wetting surfaces the way drizzle does.
Can "mist" be used as a verb?
Yes, "mist" can be used as a verb meaning to spray with fine droplets or to become covered in them, as in misting plants with water or a mirror misting up.
