Smearing - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Smearing means spreading a substance unevenly over a surface, often leaving streaks or stains. It can also refer to damaging someone’s reputation by spreading false or misleading information.
Definition:
Spreading a substance thinly or dishonestly damaging someone's reputation.
Synonyms:
daubing, staining, defaming, vilifying
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
cleaning, praising
Common Collocations:
smear campaign, smear test, smear paint
Derivatives:
smeared, smeary
Usage Tips:
Use "smearing" for spreading substances or tarnishing reputations; ensure context clarifies the intended meaning.
Common Phrases:
smear campaign, smear the opponent, like smearing butter
Etymology:
From Old English "smerian," meaning to anoint or grease; later extended to figurative uses like defaming.
Examples:
- 1. The artist is smearing paint across the canvas with a palette knife.
- 2. Politicians often accuse each other of smearing their opponents during elections.
- 3. She wiped her hands after smearing jam on the toast.
- 4. The tabloid was accused of smearing the celebrity with false rumors.