The spelling of the term "pea souper" is unique and may be confusing for some. The term refers to a thick fog often found in industrial cities during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The correct pronunciation of "pea souper" is /ˈpiː ˌsuː.pər/, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of the word is a combination of the words 'pea' and 'souper,' with the letter 'a' dropped from 'super.' The term is rarely used these days but remains a reminder of the environmental issues of the past.
Pea souper is a noun that refers to a thick, dense, and often yellowish fog that is typically prevalent in urban areas. The term originated in Britain, particularly in the early 20th century, when coal was the main source of heating and industrial activity in cities. The phrase "pea souper" is inspired by the appearance of such fogs, which resemble the color and consistency of pea soup.
This atmospheric condition occurs when smoke and other pollutants mix with moisture in the air, resulting in a heavy fog that severely reduces visibility. Pea soupers are characterized by their ability to obscure street lamps, buildings, and even neighboring objects just a few meters away, which can create hazardous conditions for pedestrians and motorists alike.
The term is often used metaphorically to describe any situation or environment where visibility is extremely limited or obscured by something akin to a thick fog. For instance, a room filled with dense smoke or a discussion characterized by vagueness and lack of clarity may be referred to as a "pea souper."
Overall, "pea souper" is a vivid and evocative term that captures the unique and memorable nature of these intense fogs, which have historically influenced the atmosphere of many British cities and have left an enduring mark in popular culture.
The term "pea souper" is a colloquial British expression that originated in the 19th century. It refers to a thick and dense fog, often smog-like in appearance, that engulfed London and other industrial cities during periods of heavy pollution.
The etymology of "pea souper" stems from the simple observation that the fog's texture and color resembled the appearance of pea soup. The use of "pea" refers to the greenish hue of the fog, while "souper" derives from the word "supper", indicating the evening time when such fogs were most common. Hence, "pea souper" came to represent the dense and murky fog that pervaded the environment, making it difficult to see and causing various health issues.
This term became commonly associated with the severe smog events that occurred in London, primarily during the Industrial Revolution.