eˈflüvēəm, ə̇ˈ- noun
also ef·flu·via -vēə
( plural ef·flu·via -vēə ; or effluviums also effluvias )
Etymology: Latin, act of flowing out, outlet, from effluere to flow out — more at effluent
1. : something especially subtle and invisible that flows out or issues forth : emanation: as
a. : efflux 1b(1)
b. : a hypothetical imponderable formerly believed to be manifest as an efflux from electrified bodies and magnets and to be responsible for their powers of attraction and repulsion
c. : an exhalation or smell especially when unpleasant
emerging from the barbershop, his jowls gray with powder, moving in an effluvium of pomade — William Faulkner
the mingled effluvia of rotting leaves and manure heaps … drifted toward her — Ellen Glasgow
also : gaseous waste : exhaust
carbon monoxide is generously present in the effluvia of all internal-combustion engines, most industrial plants, and many mines, mills, or workshops — Berton Roueché
2. : a by-product usually in the form of waste
the big rum distillery just below the town sweetens the air with a luscious smell of molasses when the effluvia are being run off into the river — Francis Ratcliffe
most of the most admired literature … has been to all appearance the effluvium of a sick society — Elmer Davis