haziness

Haziness refers to a quality of obscurity or diffuseness in vision and perception. It results from scattering and attenuation of light that reduces contrast and sharpness. The term applies to physical conditions in the air as well as to metaphorical states of mind.

In atmospheric science, haze describes a suspension of fine particles in air that scatters sunlight. It differs from fog, which is made of water droplets, and from mist, which is lighter. Haze lowers visibility, shifts colors toward gray or blue, and often intensifies under humidity or temperature inversions. Common sources include dust, smoke, and urban pollutants.

In vision and photography, haziness can arise from atmospheric conditions or physical factors in the eye or lens. It is used artistically to create mood by softening edges. In everyday language, hazy describes unclear memory or understanding.

Measurement and health aspects. Visibility is quantified by meteorological visibility or Runway Visual Range; Aerosol Optical Depth measures atmospheric haziness across wavelengths. Prolonged exposure to hazy air, especially smoke or pollution, can irritate eyes, throat, and lungs. Mitigation includes emissions reductions and air purification.

Cultural usage. Haziness appears as a motif in literature and art to evoke ambiguity, memory lapse, or dreamlike atmosphere.