smudge

²smudge

noun

Definition of SMUDGE

1

a : a blurry spot or streak b : an immaterial stain <cleanse him of every last smudge of impropriety — Richard Hanser> c : an indistinct mass : blur

2

: a smoldering mass placed on the windward side (as to protect from frost)

3

: a bid of four in pitch that if made wins the game

— smudg·i·ly \ˈsmə-jə-lē\ adverb

— smudg·i·ness \ˈsmə-jē-nəs\ noun

— smudgy \-jē\ adjective

Examples of SMUDGE

1. His hand left a grimy smudge on the wall.
2. <the president's spouse must not have the slightest smudge of scandal>

First Known Use of SMUDGE

circa 1774

Related to SMUDGE

Synonyms: blot, brand, onus, slur, smirch, stain, spot, stigma, taint

Related Words: black eye, discredit, disesteem, disgrace, dishonor, disrepute, guilt, ignominy, infamy, obloquy, odium, opprobrium, reproach, shame; corruption, debauchery, depravity, immorality, iniquity, licentiousness, sin, unscrupulousness, vice

Near Antonyms: award, credit, honor; chasteness, chastity, modesty, purity, stainlessness; good, right; honesty, integrity, legitimacy, probity, rectitude, scrupulousness, uprightness; goodness, righteousness, virtuousness; fame, glory, renown, repute

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