The phrase "are permeated by" is generally used to describe a situation where something is fully infused or saturated with something else. There are various other synonyms for this phrase that can be used to convey the same meaning such as "pervaded by", "imbued with", "saturated with", "impregnated with", "infiltrated with" and "infused with". All of these synonyms indicate a complete and thorough filling or immersion of one substance within another. Whether it is the surroundings, atmosphere or a material, these synonyms are useful for describing the extent to which something has been completely permeated by a specific element or substance.