fuming

Fuming is a term with two common senses. In science, it refers to the emission of fumes or vapors from a substance, often when it is heated, reacts, or comes into contact with air. In everyday language, it describes a person who is extremely angry or irritated.

In chemistry, fumes are gases that are produced by evaporation or chemical reactions and may be visible as a haze or may be invisible. Some liquids are described as fuming because they release vapors at room temperature. Examples include fuming sulfuric acid (oleum), which emits a white, acrid mist, and fuming nitric acid, which releases brown nitrogen dioxide fumes. Fumes can be hazardous, corrosive, or toxic, and handling such substances typically requires proper ventilation, protective equipment, and often a fume hood to remove the vapors from the work area.

In general usage, to fume means to feel or express anger, often in a way that is visibly irritated or heated. Phrases such as "she was fuming" convey a strong emotional state. The term also appears in laboratory equipment names, such as a fume hood, which is designed to vent hazardous vapors away from the user.

Etymology and related terms: fume derives from Latin fumus, meaning smoke or vapor. Related concepts include smoke, vapor, and gas, as well as safety practices for managing emissions in industrial or laboratory settings.