smudge — a dirty or blurred spot or mark
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a dirty or blurred spot or mark
Pronunciation (IPA): /smʌdʒ/
Example Sentences
- The detective found a mysterious smudge on the window that looked suspiciously like a nose print.
- She tried to erase the pencil mark but only managed to smudge it further.
- The artist's fingerprints were smudged all over the painting, making it look like a crime scene.
smudge
NOUN[/smʌdʒ/]
a dirty or blurred spot or mark
She accidentally left a dark smudge on her notebook page.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Smudge emerged in mid-15th century Middle English from dialectal sources carrying meanings of 'smear' or 'blur'. The word exhibits onomatopoetic qualities, reflecting the act of becoming soiled or blurred.
Breakdown
The word origin is uncertain but likely derives from Middle English dialectal roots related to smearing or blurring actions. The morphology suggests a simple root form without distinct morphological components, functioning as a standalone verb from its earliest attestation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The detective found a mysterious smudge on the window that looked suspiciously like a nose print.”
“She tried to erase the pencil mark but only managed to smudge it further.”
“The artist's fingerprints were smudged all over the painting, making it look like a crime scene.”
“Always let the ink dry completely to prevent smudging.”
📚Related Words
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