mist
The morning mist covered the valley.
A light fog was present in the valley during the early hours.
A cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the air near the ground, reducing visibility.
The hills were shrouded in a light mist.
The hills were partially obscured by a thin fog.
She could barely see through the mist.
Her visibility was reduced due to the fog.
Commonly used in weather descriptions and literary contexts to evoke atmosphere.
Pro Tip
Distinguish from fog
Mist is thinner than fog. If visibility is reduced but still over 1 km, it is mist. If visibility is less than 1 km, it is fog.
Gold Rule
Use in weather reports
Mist is typically used in weather forecasts to describe light fog conditions.
Word Origin
From Old English 'mist', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'mist' and German 'Nebel'.
Usage Notes
Mist is thinner than fog and does not significantly reduce visibility. It often occurs in valleys or near bodies of water.