Mildew

Mildew

Noun · /ˈmɪldjuː/

Definition

A thin, usually white or grey coating of fungus that grows on damp organic surfaces such as fabric, paper, walls, or plants in humid conditions.

Origin

From Old English mildew, a compound of mil- (honey, sweet) + dew, originally referring to the honeydew secreted by aphids on which fungi grew.