mist
UK: mɪst | US: mɪst
n. a cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere at or near the earth's surface, limiting visibility
v.t. to cover or spray with fine droplets of liquid
v.i. (of the eyes) to become blurred or covered with a film of tears
The word "mist" traces back to Old English mist, meaning "dimness, drizzle, or fog," and shares roots with Proto-Germanic mihstaz and Old Norse mistr. It is linked to the Proto-Indo-European root meigh- ("to urinate"), reflecting the idea of fine moisture. Over time, its meaning narrowed to describe light fog or condensed vapor. The verb form emerged later, metaphorically extending to actions like blurring vision or spraying liquid.
The morning mist clung to the valleys, softening the landscape.
She misted the plants with water to keep them hydrated.
His glasses misted up as he stepped into the warm room.
A thin mist rose from the lake at dawn.
The artist misted the canvas to blend the colors smoothly.