noun

mildew

MIHL-dyoo

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Mildew (noun) means a powdery or fuzzy fungal growth, usually whitish or greyish, that forms on damp surfaces, fabric, or decaying plants. Example: “The bathroom tiles were spotted with black mildew from the constant steam.”

noun

A powdery or fuzzy fungal growth, usually whitish or greyish, that forms on damp surfaces, fabric, or decaying plants.

"The bathroom tiles were spotted with black mildew from the constant steam."

"Leave the tent out to dry properly or it will grow mildew."

verb

To become covered in, or ruin something with, this fungal growth.

"The old curtains had mildewed after years in the damp attic."

How to use mildew

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA type of fungus that grows on damp things, leaving powdery white or grey patches and a musty smell.

Common mistake

Mildew and mould are closely related and often used loosely, but mildew usually refers to the surface, powdery type found on fabric, paper, and plants, while mould can be more general and grow deeper into a material.

Easily confused with

mould → mold →

Common pairings

mildew stains prevent mildew smell of mildew

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: mildews
Third person singular: mildews
Past tense: mildewed

Test yourself on “mildew” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The bathroom tiles were spotted with black _____ from the constant steam.

Etymology

From Old English mildēaw, itself a blend of an old Germanic word for "honey" and "dew" — an old poetic image for the sticky, dew-like film fungus can leave behind.

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

View more →

mold mould

Related words

form model influence cast shape determine casting stamp

Frequently asked questions

What does “mildew” mean?

The word “mildew” means a powdery or fuzzy fungal growth, usually whitish or greyish, that forms on damp surfaces, fabric, or decaying plants. In plain terms, a type of fungus that grows on damp things, leaving powdery white or grey patches and a musty smell.

How do you pronounce “mildew”?

“Mildew” is pronounced MIHL-dyoo (/ˈmɪl.d(j)u/ in IPA).

How do you use “mildew” in a sentence?

Here is “mildew” used in a sentence: “The bathroom tiles were spotted with black mildew from the constant steam.”

What part of speech is “mildew”?

Depending on how it is used, “mildew” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “mildew” come from?

The word “mildew” comes from Old English. From Old English mildēaw, itself a blend of an old Germanic word for "honey" and "dew" — an old poetic image for the sticky, dew-like film fungus can leave behind.

How many meanings does “mildew” have?

“Mildew” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a powdery or fuzzy fungal growth, usually whitish or greyish, that forms on damp surfaces, fabric, or decaying plants.

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