English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word smear in English

What does smear mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

smear

US /smɪr/
UK /smɪr/
"smear" picture

Verb

1.

to spread a greasy, oily, or sticky substance over a surface

Example:
•
He accidentally smeared paint on his new shirt.
•
She smeared butter on the toast.
Synonym:
spreaddaubrubcoatgrease
2.

to damage the reputation of someone by false accusations

Example:
•
His opponents tried to smear his name before the election.
•
The newspaper published a smear campaign against the politician.
Synonym:
slanderdefamemalignvilifydiscredit

Noun

1.

a mark or streak made by smearing something

Example:
•
There was a greasy smear on the window.
•
He wiped away the blood smear from his arm.
Synonym:
stainblotmarkstreaksmudge
2.

an act of damaging someone's reputation

Example:
•
The politician accused his rival of a deliberate smear.
•
It was a calculated smear to ruin her career.
Synonym:
slanderdefamationlibelvilificationcalumny
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Related Word:
Pap smear