Definition

1. Noun:

   • A type of fungus: A microscopic fungus that grows as a white or grayish coating on the surface of organic materials, especially in damp conditions.
   • The condition of being affected by this fungus: The process or result of becoming covered with such a fungal growth.

2. Verb:

   • To become affected by mildew: To develop or become covered with a superficial fungal growth, typically due to excess moisture and humidity.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The old books in the basement were covered in mildew.
  • A strong smell of mildew filled the damp bathroom.
• Verb:
  • If you leave wet clothes in a pile, they will mildew.
  • The shower curtain began to mildew around the edges.

Advanced Usage

• "Downy mildew": A specific type of plant disease caused by parasitic fungi, appearing as whitish, downy patches.
  • The vineyard had to treat its grapes for downy mildew.
• "Powdery mildew": Another common plant disease, appearing as a white, powdery fungal growth on leaves and stems.
  • The roses were suffering from an attack of powdery mildew.

Variants and Related Words

• Mildewy (adj): Covered with or smelling of mildew.
  • The room had a mildewy odor.

Synonyms

• Mold (n/v): A broader term for various types of fungal growth, often used interchangeably with mildew in casual contexts.
• Fungus (n): The general biological category to which mildew belongs.

Notes on Meaning

• While "mold" and "mildew" are often used synonymously in everyday language, mildew typically refers specifically to a flat, powdery, or downy fungal growth, often white or gray, that remains on the surface. "Mold" can be thicker, fuzzier, and may penetrate deeper into the material. Mildew is commonly associated with damp fabrics, paper, and bathroom surfaces.

Noun

1. a fungus that produces a superficial (usually white) growth on organic matter
2. the process of becoming mildewed

Verb

1. become moldy; spoil due to humidity
   • The furniture molded in the old house