Synonym Chooser

How is the word moist distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of moist are damp, dank, humid, and wet. While all these words mean "covered or more or less soaked with liquid," moist applies to what is slightly damp or not felt as dry.

treat the injury with moist heat

When might damp be a better fit than moist?

The words damp and moist are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, damp implies a slight or moderate absorption and often connotes an unpleasant degree of moisture.

clothes will mildew if stored in a damp place

When is it sensible to use dank instead of moist?

The meanings of dank and moist largely overlap; however, dank implies a more distinctly disagreeable or unwholesome dampness.

a prisoner in a cold, dank cell

Where would humid be a reasonable alternative to moist?

Although the words humid and moist have much in common, humid applies to the presence of much water vapor in the air.

a hot, humid climate

When can wet be used instead of moist?

The words wet and moist can be used in similar contexts, but wet usually implies saturation but may suggest a covering of a surface with water or something (such as paint) not yet dry.

slipped on the wet pavement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of moist Various species are adapted to a wide range of sites, from sunny rock gardens to moist woodlands. Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2025 Dill Cilantro and dill have similar growing needs, preferring growing in cooler seasons in moist soil and full sun, and their flowers attract beneficial insects and pollinators to the garden. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 31 Aug. 2025 Your bread won’t have the same dark crust, but the moist crumb flavored with brown butter and maple syrup is ample recompense. The Know, Denver Post, 29 Aug. 2025 Let everything dry for at least five days in warm dry weather, 30 days in cool moist weather, or with a towel before your next boating trip. Sacbee.com, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for moist
Recent Examples of Synonyms for moist
damp
Adjective
  • Soil samples should be slightly damp to dry, not completely wet.
    Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Finish by wiping down the upholstery with a damp microfiber cloth to remove any soapy residue.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 6 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Moist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/moist. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on moist

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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