Sooty: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used when referring to an object covered in or resembling soot, usually from a fire or smoke. It has a strong association with residue left by combustion.

• The chimney sweep emerged with a sooty face.
• After the fire, everything in the room was sooty.

Used to describe something that is not clean. This word is broad and applies to anything covered in dirt, grime, or filth, not necessarily related to soot or fire.

• The children came back from the playground with dirty clothes.
• The car's windshield was dirty from the mud.

Typically used to describe an environment or object filled with or smelling of smoke. It can also refer to a voice or flavor resembling smoke.

• The room was smoky after they lit the fireplace.
• She had a smoky voice that was perfect for jazz singing.

Appropriate when something has been darkened or charred, often by burning or exposure to intense heat. It can also be used metaphorically.

• The edges of the paper were blackened by the fire.
• His reputation was blackened by the scandal.

Often used to describe something covered with or resembling soot, typically in reference to smoke or ashes.

• The chimney left a sooty residue on the floor.
• His hands were sooty after handling the coal.

A general term for the absence of light or the darkest color, can be used in a wide range of contexts, from objects and clothing to feelings and situations.

• She wore a black dress to the party.
• The night sky was pitch black.

Describes low light conditions or a deep shade of a color. Can also be used metaphorically to describe somber or grim situations or moods.

• The room was too dark to see anything.
• She had a dark look in her eyes.

Usually refers to the dark gray color of burned wood or can describe items or materials with this specific color. Often associated with art and drawing.

• He sketched a portrait using charcoal.
• The walls were painted a soft charcoal shade.