Definition

The quality or state of having a stale, damp, or moldy smell, often associated with old or poorly ventilated places.

Example

The mustiness in the basement made it uncomfortable to spend time there.

Conversation

Have you noticed the mustiness in the basement lately?

Yeah, it smells kind of damp down there.

I think we need to get some air fresheners to combat that mustiness.

Good idea! Maybe we should also check for any leaks.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mustiness → The word is derived from 'musty' (from Middle English 'musti', meaning moldy or stale) and the suffix '-ness' (meaning the state or quality of). Mustiness refers to the state of being musty, which is often associated with a damp, stale, or moldy smell.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'musty' which describes something stale or moldy, and remember that 'mustiness' refers to the quality of being musty.

Visually Confused Words