mofette

(mō fet′)

noun

a vent or fissure in an area of recent volcanic activity, emitting steam, carbon dioxide, and, sometimes, other gases

Origin: Fr < It muffare, to be moldy < Ger muff, mold

See mofette in American Heritage Dictionary 4

also mof·fette

noun

An opening in the earth from which carbon dioxide and other gases escape, usually marking the last stage of volcanic activity.
The gases escaping from such an opening.

Origin:

Origin: French, gaseous exhalation

Origin: , from Italian moffetta

Origin: , diminutive of muffa, mold, moldy smell

Origin: , probably of Germanic origin

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