Word: Vapour
Definition:
Vapour is a noun that refers to a gas that is formed when a liquid changes into a gas or when a solid turns into a gas. It can be seen as tiny droplets in the air, which makes it look like a mist or fog.
Usage Instructions:
- Vapour is often used when talking about weather, cooking, or scientific processes. - It is usually uncountable, meaning we don’t say "vapours" when referring to it in general.
Examples:
1. When you boil water, steam rises from the pot; this steam is actually water vapour. 2. On a cold morning, you can see your breath because the warm vapour from your mouth condenses in the cold air.
Advanced Usage:
In scientific contexts, vapour refers to a specific state of matter that is distinct from solids and liquids. For example, water vapour is water in its gaseous form, and it plays an important role in weather patterns and climate.
Word Variants:
- Vapor: This is the American English spelling of "vapour." - Vaporization (noun): The process of changing from a liquid or solid into vapour. - Vaporous (adjective): Pertaining to or having the characteristics of vapour.
Different Meanings:
In everyday language, "vapour" can also refer to any kind of gas that is visible, such as smoke or fumes.
Synonyms:
- Mist - Steam - Fog - Fumes
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "vapour," you might come across expressions related to it, such as "in a haze" or "lost in the vapours," which suggest confusion or a lack of clarity.
Summary:
Vapour is an important concept in both everyday life and science. It describes a state of matter that can often be observed in nature, like steam rising from a kettle or fog on a cold day.