smog

noun

ˈsmäg How to pronounce smog (audio)
Definition of smognext
as in haze
an atmospheric condition in which suspended particles in the air rob it of its transparency the city's smog was once so bad that darkness often prevailed, even at noon

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of smog The elevation differences cause temperature inversions, where the warm air traveling over the ridges traps the cooler air closer to the ground, along with the smog and pollution. — Daliah Singer, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026 The summer blend is meant to help limit the chances of smog in the Metro Detroit area. — Paula Wethington, CBS News, 18 Sep. 2026 The legislation expands smog check exemptions for certain collector cars that have been relegated to driveways and garages due to the challenge of passing a smog check. — Daniel Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026 Even a partial dismantling of the rules would mean more pollutants such as smog, mercury and lead — and especially more tiny airborne particles that can lodge in lungs and cause health problems, the AP analysis found. — ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smog
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smog
  1. haze
  2. fog
  3. cloud
  4. mist
Noun
  • On the horizon, in the haze, several more tankers lay anchored, engaged in ship-to-ship transfers, taking on oil shuttled through the Strait of Hormuz under US protection for delivery to customers around the world.
    — semafor.com, semafor.com, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The surge in fires has renewed concerns about transboundary haze across Southeast Asia.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of haze
Noun
  • Loose white sand blew into the air and whirled around at the edge of the sea like a fog.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2026
  • The Tigers’ entourage, scheduled to appear here for SEC Basketball Media Day, could not take off due to the fog, grounding them for their session, the league announced.
    — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of fog
Noun
  • Another round of low clouds is expected to develop late tonight and spread into the metroplex toward Wednesday morning.
    — Michael Autovino, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026
  • Google is working with McLaren to integrate its Gemini AI tools, while Mercedes-AMG Petronas has partnered with Microsoft to use AI and cloud technology for performance analysis and race strategy.
    — Jenny Lee, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of cloud
Noun
  • Reed suggests using a cool-mist humidifier when sick, which can help ease stuffiness during a cold.
    — Andee Tagle, NPR, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Allure editors have consistently praised its fine, lightweight mist and a finish that sets within seconds.
    — Madison San Miguel, Allure, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of mist

Browse Nearby Words

smocking
smog
smoggy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Smog.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smog. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on smog

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about smog

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