mildew

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the process of becoming mildewed
  2. noun a fungus that produces a superficial (usually white) growth on organic matter
  3. verb become moldy; spoil due to humidity

Etymology

From Middle English myldew, from Old English meledēaw, mildēaw, from Proto-West Germanic *milidauw, from *mili (“honey”) + *dauw (“dew”). Compare West Frisian moaldau, Dutch meeldauw, German Mehltau. More at dew.

In classic literature

Synonyms

mold, mould

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