Pronunciation: [vˈe͡ɪpəɹəs] (IPA) 
The word "vapourous" is spelled with a "u" in the middle, despite it sounding like it should be spelled with an "o". This is because it is a British spelling and follows the usual British tendency to add a "u" in words where the vowel sound is "ou". Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈveɪ.pər.əs/, where the "ou" sound in "vapourous" is transcribed as /eɪ/ and the final "ous" sound is transcribed as /əs/.
Vapourous is an adjective derived from the word "vapour," referring to a gaseous substance, typically arising from evaporation or combustion. In general, the term vapourous describes something that has characteristics related to, resembling, or producing vapor.
When applied in a literal sense, vapourous can signify an airy, misty, or hazy quality. It describes an object, substance, or environment that is filled with or composed of vapour or vapor-like particles, often indicating a high level of humidity or moisture content. For example, a vapourous fog may envelop a landscape, giving it a surreal or ethereal appearance.
In a figurative sense, vapourous can refer to something that is insubstantial, evanescent, or of transient nature. It describes ideas, concepts, or theories that lack solidity or concrete evidence, appearing intangible or elusive. Vapourous can also be used to illustrate things that are perceived to be lacking in substance, weight, or permanence, emphasizing their fleeting or illusory nature.
Additionally, in literary or poetic contexts, vapourous may be associated with dreamlike, romantic, or ethereal qualities, suggesting an atmosphere of mystery, enchantment, or otherworldliness. It can be attributed to elements or descriptions that create a sense of evocative or imaginative imagery, invoking a feeling of intangible beauty or ephemeral existence.
Overall, the term vapourous encompasses the physical, metaphorical, and imaginative connotations associated with vapor or vaporous characteristics.
Full of vapours or exhalations; proceeding from the vapours.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "vapourous" has its etymological roots in the Middle English term "vapourous" or "vapurous", which was derived from the Old French word "vaporeus". This Old French term, in turn, was formed from the Latin word "vaporosus", meaning "full of vapor" or "vaporous". The Latin word "vapor" refers to steam, moisture, or a gaseous substance. Thus, "vapourous" evolved from these earlier forms to describe something that is characterized by or resembling vapor or gas.
