antimiasmatic
|an-ti-mi-as-mat-ic|
/ˌæn.ti.maɪ.əˈz mæt.ɪk/
against poisonous/unclean air
Etymology
'antimiasmatic' originates from New Latin/modern English, combining the Greek prefix 'anti-' meaning 'against' with 'miasma' (Greek 'μίασμα') meaning 'stain, pollution'.
'antimiasmatic' developed in English in the 19th century from the noun/term 'antimiasma' (a remedy or agent opposed to miasma), which itself was formed from 'miasma' borrowed from Greek 'μίασμα'.
Initially used in a medical context to indicate agents believed to oppose or dispel miasma, its sense has shifted to a rarer, more general adjective meaning 'antiseptic' or 'air-purifying' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
preventing, counteracting, or neutralizing miasma (noxious or unhealthy air); having an antiseptic or purifying effect on the air.
The clinic employed antimiasmatic measures, spraying aromatics to keep the wards free of foul odors.
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Adjective 2
relating to or characteristic of antimiasma theory or methods — i.e., substances or treatments believed (historically) to oppose or dispel miasma.
In 19th-century texts, physicians recommended various antimiasmatic remedies to combat supposed environmental poisons.
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Last updated: 2025/09/04 01:46