Word
mildew
US/ˈmɪɫˌdu/
UK/mˈɪldjuː/
Definition
n. a type of mold that grows on damp surfaces like walls, ceilings, or clothes. It usually looks like a white or gray powdery film.
n. a type of mold that grows on damp surfaces, typically appearing as a white or gray powdery coating.
Examples
“Mildew grows quickly in the damp bathroom.”
“The landlord had to hire a professional to remove the mildew from the basement walls before the new tenants moved in.”
“While mildew is generally less dangerous than its toxic counterparts, it can cause significant structural damage to wood and fabric if left untreated in a humid environment.”
Examples
simple
“Mildew grows quickly in the damp bathroom.”
contextual
“The landlord had to hire a professional to remove the mildew from the basement walls before the new tenants moved in.”
complex
“While mildew is generally less dangerous than its toxic counterparts, it can cause significant structural damage to wood and fabric if left untreated in a humid environment.”
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.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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