Spattering: meaning, definitions and examples

Spattering refers to small droplets or particles scattering and making a series of small, scattered marks. It's often used when liquid droplets are haphazardly splashed over a surface.

• The bacon grease started spattering all over the stovetop
• Drops of paint spattered his clothes during the renovation

Sprinkling refers to scattering small, solid particles or tiny droplets over a surface. It is often associated with gentler, more controlled actions.

• She was sprinkling sugar on her cereal
• The gardener was sprinkling seeds evenly across the flower bed

Splattering generally describes larger, louder, and more forceful scattering of liquid or semi-liquid substances. This term often implies a messier or more chaotic situation.

• The mud splattered all over the car when he drove through the puddle
• Tomato sauce splattered on the wall as the pot boiled over

Spraying involves dispersing a liquid in a fine mist or jet, usually in a controlled and even way. It's commonly used when referring to the application of liquid over a wide area.

• She was spraying water on the plants to keep them hydrated
• He sprayed the cologne lightly over his shirt

Useful when describing small amounts of liquid being thrown or hitting a surface irregularly.

• The rain was spattering against the window
• Paint spattered all over the floor when the can fell

Appropriate for light and steady rain, usually characterized by small, fine droplets.

• It was drizzling when we left the house
• The weather forecast predicted drizzling rain throughout the day

Best for light distribution of liquid or small particles in multiple, small quantities.

• He was sprinkling sugar on top of the muffins
• There was a light sprinkling of rain in the morning

Used when larger amounts of liquid hit a surface or are played with, often creating noise and visible movement.

• The children were splashing water in the pool
• She splashed paint on the canvas to create a unique effect

When small drops of a liquid are scattered irregularly, often with some force.

• The rain was spattering against the window
• Paint spattering on the floor from a careless brush stroke

When small amounts of a substance (often dry like sugar or water) are scattered lightly or evenly over a surface.

• She sprinkled sugar on top of the cake
• A light rain began to sprinkle on the ground

When a liquid hits or is thrown on a surface and scatters in various directions, often involving a larger amount of liquid.

• She made a big splash when she jumped into the pool
• Water splashed out of the bucket as it was carried

When a liquid is dispersed in fine particles over an area, typically from a nozzle or similar device.

• He used a spray bottle to mist the plants
• The perfume was applied with a few sprays