smear
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Contents |
[edit] English
[edit] Pronunciation
- (RP) enPR: smî, IPA: /smɪə/, SAMPA: /smI@/
- (US) enPR: smîr, IPA: /smɪɚ/, SAMPA: /smI@`/
- Rhymes: -ɪə(r)
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Audio (UK) (file)
[edit] Verb
smear (third-person singular simple present smears, present participle smearing, simple past and past participle smeared)
- (transitive) To spread (a substance, especially one that colours or is dirty) across a surface by rubbing.
- The artist smeared paint over the canvas in broad strokes.
- (transitive) To have a substance smeared on (a surface).
- She smeared her lips with lipstick.
- (transitive) To damage someone's reputation by slandering, misrepresenting, or otherwise making false accusations about an individual, their statements, or their actions.
- The opposition party attempted to smear the candidate by spreading incorrect and unverifiable rumors about their personal behavior.
- (intransitive) To become spread by smearing.
- The paint is still wet — don't touch it or it will smear.
[edit] Synonyms
[edit] Translations
to spread (a substance)
to spread (a surface) with a substance
to damage someone's reputation by slandering, making false accusations
[edit] Noun
smear (plural smears)
- A mark made by smearing.
- This detergent cleans windows without leaving smears.
- (medicine) A Pap smear.
- I'm going to the doctor's this afternoon for a smear.
- A false attack.
[edit] Synonyms
[edit] Translations
mark
Pap smear — see Pap smear