Splatter: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about a liquid that hits and spreads over a surface, often in an uneven or scattered pattern. Commonly used with paints, blood, or water.

• Paint splattered all over the floor.
• The rain splattered against the window.

Used when a liquid is forced out of a container in small droplets, creating a fine mist. This term often implies intentionality.

• She sprayed perfume on her wrists.
• The garden hose sprayed water in all directions.

Refers to a liquid or semi-liquid substance being poured or falling carelessly, with a sense of messiness. Can have a slightly negative connotation.

• He slopped soup all over the table.
• The pigs slopped around in the mud.

Describes a situation where a liquid exceeds the boundaries of its container and spills over the edge, often implying a lack of control.

• The coffee slopped over the rim of the cup.
• The waves slopped over the sides of the boat.

General term for a liquid accidentally escaping its container. This term has a neutral connotation and can be used in various situations.

• She spilled her drink on the carpet.
• Oil spills can cause environmental damage.

Use 'splatter' when a liquid or semi-liquid substance is thrown or falls onto a surface, making it messy and irregular.

• The paint splattered all over the floor.
• Rain splattered against the windowpane.

Employ 'splash' when a larger amount of liquid hits a surface and spreads out quickly. Often used in a playful or dynamic context.

• The kids love to splash water in the pool.
• She accidentally splashed juice on her dress.

Use 'spray' for a fine mist or small droplets that are dispersed over a large area from a nozzle or similar mechanism.

• He sprayed water onto the plants.
• She used spray paint to color the wall.

Choose 'spatter' when referring to small drops of a liquid that fall or are thrown on a surface. Commonly used when the drops are scattered.

• He spattered paint on his clothes while working.
• The frying oil spattered onto the stove.

The word 'stain' is appropriate when something leaves a mark or discoloration that is often unwanted and difficult to remove. This term has a negative connotation.

• The coffee stained the carpet.
• The ink stained her hands.