humidity
UK: hjuːˈmɪdɪti | US: hjuːˈmɪdɪti
n. the amount of water vapor present in the air
n. a measure of dampness or moisture in the atmosphere
The word "humidity" originates from the Latin humiditas, derived from humidus (moist, wet). The root humid traces back to humere (to be moist), linked to humus (earth or soil), reflecting the natural association between moisture and the ground. The suffix -ity (from Latin -itas) converts adjectives into nouns, forming "humidity" to denote the state or quality of being moist. This logical progression—from earth’s moisture to atmospheric dampness—captures the word’s evolution.
The humidity today makes the air feel heavy.
High humidity can damage wooden furniture.
Plants thrive in moderate humidity.
The weather forecast predicts rising humidity levels.
She complained about the humidity ruining her hair.