First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
moist
adjective \ˈmȯist\
: slightly or barely wet : not completely dry
: having a lot of moisture in the air
Full Definition of MOIST
1
: slightly or moderately wet : damp
2
: tearful
3
: characterized by high humidity
— moist·ly adverb
— moist·ness \ˈmȯis(t)-nəs\ noun
See moist defined for English-language learners
See moist defined for kids
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Origin of MOIST
Middle English moiste, from Anglo-French, perhaps from Vulgar Latin *muscidus, alteration of Latin mucidus slimy, from mucus nasal mucus
Synonym Discussion of MOIST
wet, damp, dank, moist, humid mean covered or more or less soaked with liquid. wet usually implies saturation but may suggest a covering of a surface with water or something (as paint) not yet dry <slipped on the wet pavement>. damp implies a slight or moderate absorption and often connotes an unpleasant degree of moisture <clothes will mildew if stored in a damp place>. dank implies a more distinctly disagreeable or unwholesome dampness <a prisoner in a cold, dank cell>. moist applies to what is slightly damp or not felt as dry <treat the injury with moist heat>. humid applies to the presence of much water vapor in the air <a hot, humid climate>.
MOISTNESS Defined for Kids
moist
adjective \ˈmȯist\
Definition of MOIST for Kids
: slightly wet : damp
— moist·ness noun
Medical Dictionary
moist
adjective \ˈmȯist\
Medical Definition of MOIST
1
: slightly or moderately wet
2
a : marked by a discharge or exudation of liquid <moist eczema> b : suggestive of the presence of liquid—used of sounds heard in auscultation <moist rales>
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