humid

adjective

hu·​mid ˈhyü-məd 

ˈyü-

: containing or characterized by perceptible moisture especially to the point of being oppressive

humidly adverb

Synonyms

• damp
• muggy
• sticky
• sultry

Choose the Right Synonym for humid

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 (such 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

Examples of humid in a Sentence

the air was so humid that our beach towels hanging on the line never really got dry

Recent Examples on the Web

Other ways to prevent an imbalance include avoiding exercise in hot, humid environments, reducing salt intake, managing health conditions, and addressing medication concerns with your healthcare provider. —Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025

On the mane front, Southern women have been known for big hair, lots of hair spray, and constantly defying the hot, humid environment around them. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 22 Jan. 2025

The new Pool Bar offers a chic space to unwind and cool off during humid days, The Polo Club provides a handsome spot for cocktails and the lobby hosts one of the city’s best afternoon teas. —Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

Avocado trees thrive in humid environments of 50% or higher and prefer warm weather that ranges from 60°F to 85°F. —Lauren David, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

French or Latin; French humide, from Latin humidus, from humēre

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

humid

adjective

hu·​mid ˈhyü-məd 

ˈyü-

: damp entry 3, moist

a humid climate

humidly adverb

Medical Definition

humid

adjective

hu·​mid ˈhyü-məd  ˈyü- 

: containing or characterized by perceptible moisture especially to the point of being oppressive

a hot humid climate