Meaning & Definition of word "Smear"
Smear
/smɪər/
noun:
- 1. a mark made by smearing or spreading a substance.
- Example: There was a smear of paint on the floor after the renovation.
- 2. an attempt to damage a person's reputation through false accusations.
- Example: His career suffered due to the smear perpetrated by his rivals.
verb:
- 1. to spread or apply a substance thinly or unevenly over a surface.
- Example: She decided to smear the butter on the toast with a knife.
- 2. to damage someone's reputation by making false or exaggerated claims.
- Example: The politician tried to smear his opponent with rumors and lies.
Etymology
●Middle English smeren, from Old Norse smyrja
Common Phrases and Expressions
smear campaign:
A coordinated effort to damage someone's reputation.
smear test:
A medical test for cancer screening, especially in women.
smear of dirt:
A mark caused by dirt being spread on a surface.
Related Words
smudge:
A mark made by a smearing or rubbing action.
defamation:
The action of damaging the good reputation of someone.
daub:
To coat or smear a surface with a substance.
Slang Meanings of smear
Meaning: To criticize someone harshly.
● Example Sentence: He got smeared on social media after that incident.
Meaning: To be involved in a scandal or controversy.
● Example Sentence: After the leak, he was smeared as a whistleblower.