Mist - Definition and Overview

Misty Hill

Mist rising from a hill

Mist is a phenomenon of a liquid in small droplets floating through air. It can occur naturally as part of natural weather or volcanic activity, and is common in cold air above hot water, in exhaled air in the cold, and in a steam room of a sauna. It can also be created artificially with aerosol canisters. Fog is a definition closely related to mist, in that their definitions overlap. At performances and parties a fog machine can be used for visual effects, possibly combined with special lighting.

Strong superstitious and religious connotations are associated with mist in some cultures.

Not to be confused with the Myst computer game series.