muggy
UK: ˈmʌɡi | US: ˈmʌɡi
adj. (of weather) unpleasantly warm and humid
adj. (archaic) damp or musty in smell
The word "muggy" originates from the early 18th century, derived from the dialectal term "mugg," meaning "damp" or "mist," likely of Scandinavian influence (compare Old Norse "mugga" – drizzle). The suffix "-y" transforms it into an adjective, describing oppressive humidity. The term reflects the sensory discomfort of thick, stagnant air, evolving from literal dampness to its modern meteorological use.
The muggy afternoon made it hard to breathe.
After the rain, the basement felt muggy and smelled of mildew.
Tourists often struggle with the muggy climate of tropical regions.
She wiped her forehead, complaining about the muggy weather.
The muggy air clung to their skin like a wet blanket.