Meaning & Definition of word "Smear"

Smear

/smɪər/

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.

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.

●Middle English smeren, from Old Norse smyrja

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.

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.

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.