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Smearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smearing

[ˈsmɪərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

on a surface

To spread or daub (a substance) thinly or lightly over a surface.

Synonyms

coat, daub, spread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smearing

Smearing is used when something is applied in a careless or messy way, often implying a thin and uneven application. It can also carry a negative connotation when referring to ruining someone's reputation.

  • The child was smearing paint all over the table.
  • The politician accused his opponent of smearing his good name.
spread

Spread is used when something is applied over an area in a smooth and even way, covering a wide surface. It often applies to substances like butter, jam, or information.

  • She spread butter on her toast.
  • The news spread quickly throughout the town.
coat

Coat is used when something is applied evenly and thoroughly on a surface, often to protect or cover it completely.

  • She coated the cookies with chocolate.
  • He applied a coat of paint to the wall.
daub

Daub is used when something is applied roughly or quickly, often implying a lack of precision or care. It is typically used for thicker substances and may have a slightly negative undertone.

  • He daubed some plaster on the wall to cover the crack.
  • The artist daubed colors onto the canvas without much thought.

Examples of usage

  • She was smearing cream on her face before going to bed.
  • He smeared butter on the bread for breakfast.
Context #2 | Noun

negative

A false or unsubstantiated accusation or story.

Synonyms

calumny, defamation, slander.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smearing

Again, 'smearing' can be used when describing the act of spreading harmful or false information to harm someone's reputation, often implying malice.

  • The campaign was full of smearing tactics, with each side trying to discredit the other
slander

Specifically refers to spoken false statements that damage a person's reputation. It is often used in legal or formal discussions.

  • She decided to take legal action for slander after her coworker spread untrue rumors about her at the office
defamation

Generally used in legal contexts to describe the act of damaging someone's good reputation through false statements. It includes both slander (spoken) and libel (written).

  • The company sued the tabloid for defamation after it published false stories about its products
calumny

This word is often used in more formal contexts to describe a false and defamatory statement designed to damage someone's reputation. It carries a strong negative connotation.

  • The artist filed a lawsuit, stating that the gossip was nothing but pure calumny intended to ruin his career

Examples of usage

  • The newspaper published a smear about the politician without any evidence.
  • The smear campaign against the company led to a decrease in sales.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'smearing'

The word 'smearing' originated from the Middle English word 'smeren', which is derived from Old English 'smyrian', meaning to anoint or make smooth. The term evolved over time to include the act of spreading or daubing a substance over a surface. In a negative context, 'smearing' also came to refer to false accusations or defamation. The use of 'smearing' in both literal and metaphorical senses has persisted through the centuries, reflecting human tendencies in communication and conflict.

See also: smear.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,499, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.