Besmearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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besmearing
[bɛsˈmɪərɪŋ ]
Definition
action, smeared substance
To besmear means to smear or spread something over a surface in a messy or unclean manner. This action often implies the use of a greasy or sticky substance, and it's typically used to describe a situation where the application is clumsy or careless. It can also convey a sense of contamination or soiling. The term can be used both literally and metaphorically, suggesting something unclean or tarnished.
Synonyms
besmirch, smear, smudge, sully.
Examples of usage
- He was besmearing paint on the canvas.
- The child was caught besmearing mud on the walls.
- She felt he was trying to besmear her reputation.
- The thief was found besmearing the door with grease.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- In some cultures, using mud for body decoration is a traditional practice, symbolizing connection to nature.
- The concept of besmearing can be seen in certain forms of protest art, where people intentionally splash paint as a form of activism.
Literature
- In literature, besmearing often appears in descriptions of chaotic or unkempt settings, emphasizing disorder.
- Authors may use this term metaphorically to suggest tarnishing someone's reputation, beyond just the physical mess.
Psychology
- The act of besmearing can symbolize the human tendency to express anger or rebellion visually, often via graffiti.
- Psychologically, making a mess can sometimes be a form of catharsis, reflecting one's emotional state.
Art
- In abstract expressionism, artists often smear paint to convey raw emotion rather than precise imagery.
- Smearing can also be a technique in performance art, where the act of making a mess itself becomes part of the statement.
Origin of 'besmearing'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'be-' meaning 'around' and 'smear,' which relates to spreading.
- Initially, this term implied applying substances like oil or paint, illustrating where it crosses into the idea of causing a mess.
The word 'besmear' has its origins in the Middle English 'besmeren', which combines the prefix 'be-' with 'smear'. The 'be-' prefix is commonly used in Old and Middle English to form verbs indicating thoroughness or completion, while 'smear' comes from the Old English 'smyrian', meaning to smear or spread. Historically, the word was often associated with actions that leave a dirty or messy mark on something, reflecting a sense of uncleanliness. The usage of 'besmear' has evolved to encompass both physical dirtiness and metaphorical implications, such as tarnishing someone's character or reputation. The term has remained relatively consistent in its meaning over the centuries, reflecting a continual focus on the consequences of applying a substance in a careless or negative manner.