Mephitic
Adjective
Definition: Poisonous or noxious; pertaining to or resembling the noxious gases emitted by swamps or volcanoes.
Synonyms: Poisonous, Toxic, Noxious, Harmful, Foul
Antonyms: Fragrant, Pleasant, Sweet-smelling
- The mephitic fumes from the chemical spill were harmful to inhale.
- The explorers had to wear gas masks to protect themselves from the mephitic gases in the volcanic area.
- "Mephitic" sounds like "medic," and just like some medicines can be harmful if not used correctly, mephitic substances can be poisonous or noxious.
Etymology:
Late 17th century, from Latin 'mephiticus', from 'mephitis' meaning a noxious smell or exhalation, originally interpreted as implying a deity's avoidance.
Historical Usage:The word has been used since the late 17th century to describe the poisonous and foul-smelling nature of gases emitted by swamps, volcanoes, and other sources.
Related Idioms:
None identified.
Explanation:"Mephitic" specifically refers to something that is poisonous or noxious, while "epithetic" refers to the use of an epithet, which is a descriptive term or phrase used to characterize someone or something.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "mephitic" with "epithetic" (adjective form of "epithet").
Explanation:"Mephitic" specifically refers to something that is poisonous or noxious, while "epithetic" refers to the use of an epithet, which is a descriptive term or phrase used to characterize someone or something.