Besmear: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'besmearan', meaning 'to smear over'.
• It combines the prefix 'be-' which suggests covering or 'around' and 'smear', which means to spread or mark.
• This word has been in usage since the 16th century, illustrating the lasting nature of its concept.

Literature

• In poetry, the act of besmearing often symbolizes the concept of burden or the weight of emotional experiences.
• Writers sometimes use it metaphorically to describe actions, like 'besmearing reputations' in critiques.
• Literature featuring vivid imagery, such as paint or ink on a canvas, can evoke the idea of besmearing to represent chaotic creativity.

Art

• In art, to besmear can refer to techniques like impasto, where paint is thickly applied to create texture.
• Street artists often besmear walls with graffiti, transforming ordinary spaces into expressions of culture.
• The use of dark and light colors in art pieces can represent the act of besmearing, showcasing contrast in emotions.

Culinary

• In cooking, it's common to besmear butter or cream cheese on bagels for flavor.
• Different cultures have unique traditions of besmearing spreads or toppings on breads or pastries, reflecting local tastes.
• The technique of besmearing sauces on dishes can enhance the whole dining experience visually and taste-wise.

Psychology

• Sometimes, the word is used metaphorically in psychology to describe how negative experiences can 'besmear' one's view of the world.
• In therapeutic contexts, besmearing can refer to anchoring negative feelings to physical actions or sensory experiences.
• This term can also illustrate how conflicts can besmear relationships, needing resolution to clear up misunderstandings.