Smattering: meaning, definitions and examples

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smattering

 

[ ˈsmætərɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

small amount

A smattering refers to a small, superficial, or scattered amount of something. It is often used to describe a limited knowledge or understanding of a subject, indicating that the person has only a basic familiarity without deep comprehension. The term can also apply to physical things, suggesting a sparse distribution. People might use 'smattering' to express both the quantity and the quality of knowledge or interest, illustrating a minimalistic approach.

Synonyms

bit, dash, scattering, sprinkle

Examples of usage

  • She has a smattering of French.
  • He only has a smattering of information on the topic.
  • The garden had a smattering of colorful flowers.

Translations

Translations of the word "smattering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conhecimento superficial

🇮🇳 हल्का ज्ञान

🇩🇪 oberflächliches Wissen

🇮🇩 pengetahuan dangkal

🇺🇦 поверхневе знання

🇵🇱 powierzchowna wiedza

🇯🇵 浅い知識

🇫🇷 connaissance superficielle

🇪🇸 conocimiento superficial

🇹🇷 yüzeysel bilgi

🇰🇷 피상적인 지식

🇸🇦 معرفة سطحية

🇨🇿 povrchní znalost

🇸🇰 povrchné vedomosti

🇨🇳 肤浅的知识

🇸🇮 površno znanje

🇮🇸 yfirborðskennt þekking

🇰🇿 беттік білім

🇬🇪 ზედაპირული ცოდნა

🇦🇿 səthi bilik

🇲🇽 conocimiento superficial

Etymology

The word 'smattering' originated from the early 19th century, derived from the verb 'smatter,' which means to speak or write in a casual or superficial manner. The verb itself has roots in Middle Low German 'smatteren,' meaning 'to speak carelessly,' or Old Norse 'smatta,' meaning 'to make a noise.' Initially, it referred to a small amount of something, particularly knowledge, that was not deeply rooted. Over time, 'smattering' has evolved to describe not just knowledge, but also a scattering or sprinkling of various items or concepts. This term paints a picture of something that is present in a light or insubstantial way, embodying the idea of a little being mixed with a lot, often conveying a sense of misconception about depth.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,063, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.