mildew
/ˈmɪlˌdu/
noun
- A thin, whitish or grayish fungus that grows on plants, paper, cloth, or other surfaces in damp, warm conditions.
- Mildew ruined the pages of the book stored in the basement.
- The old shower curtain was covered in black mildew.
- If you see mildew on your houseplants, move them to a drier spot.
Synonyms
verb
- To become covered or affected by mildew.
- The farmer worried that the wheat would mildew after the heavy rains.
- The towels will mildew if you leave them in a wet pile.
- Leather shoes can mildew quickly in a damp closet.