1. Plural of miasma; noxious vapors or fumes, especially those thought to cause disease (historical medical belief).
Usage: archaic medical term; often used in historical contexts
2. Plural of miasma; a thick, oppressive, or noxious atmosphere or influence.
Usage: figurative use

Examples

• Medieval doctors believed that miasmas rising from swamps caused plague.
• The city was shrouded in miasmas of industrial smoke during the 19th century.
• A miasma of corruption hung over the government.
• The miasmas from the factory polluted the surrounding neighborhoods.
• Scientists eventually disproved the miasma theory of disease transmission.
• The room was filled with miasmas of stale air and dust.