Haze
Etymology
Of obscure origin, appearing in English in the 17th century. It may be a back-formation from the adjective "hazy," itself of unknown source.
The nautical "haze," to harass with pointless hard labour, is likely a separate origin from the atmospheric sense.
noun · /HAYZ/
A dry atmospheric veil of fine dust, smoke, or pollution that softens and dims the view.
What it names
The specifically dry kind of murk — distinct from mist and fog, which are made of water.
Example
Summer haze blurred the distant hills into flat grey shapes.
Related idea
Haze is dry particles suspended in air; mist and fog are suspended water droplets — a key distinction for describing what dims a view.
verb · /HAYZ/
To subject a newcomer to humiliating or abusive initiation rituals.
What it names
coercive initiation of newcomers
Example
The fraternity was suspended for hazing first-year students.
Related idea
Chiefly North American, and aimed squarely at the rookie — the vulnerable newcomer.