adjective
vaporous
VAY-per-us/ˈveɪpərəs/
Resembling vapor in lacking substance or clear form.
A vaporous veil of mist dissolves above the still pond.
Etymology
Literally “full of steam,” vaporous describes something with the nature of mist. That image also supports the figurative sense of something unsubstantial rather than solid or definite.
In context
… you can't have a substantive debate without substance and this has been the most vapid vaporous campaign of the 10 presidential races I've covered Joe Klein's …
More examples
- The proposal offers only vaporous promises of a better future.
- The painting blurs the city into vaporous shapes.
- Her plans remain vaporous, with no budget or timetable.
Forms
vaporous
vapor noun — A substance in its gaseous state.
Similar words
- insubstantial
- Emphasizes a lack of solidity, weight, or importance.
- vague
- Emphasizes a lack of clarity rather than substance.
- ethereal
- Suggests delicate lightness or otherworldly beauty rather than vagueness.