grime

noun

ˈgrīm 

: soot, smut, or dirt adhering to or embedded in a surface

broadly : accumulated dirtiness and disorder

grime transitive verb

Synonyms of grime

• dirt
• muck
• soil
• filth

Examples of grime in a Sentence

The windows were coated with grime.

this new product really cuts through grime

Recent Examples on the Web

Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces Frequently touched surfaces like light switches, door handles, and cabinet pulls can collect fingerprints and grime with everyday use, says Gonzalez. — Brigitt Earley, Martha Stewart, 4 Nov. 2026

Fortunately, a better, safer alternative exists that prevents food, grime, and grease buildup in the first place. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Nov. 2026

Old food debris / grime / slime / black mold-like accumulation was observed on shelves in the walk-in refrigerator, bulk food containers and the shelves in the chaat refrigerator. — Sacbee.com, 30 Oct. 2026

Ceiling Fans You’d be surprised how quickly large amounts of dirt and sticky grime form on a ceiling fan. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 29 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle Dutch grime soot, mask; akin to Old English grīma mask

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for grime

• chime
• chyme
• climb
• clime
• crime
• dime
• lime
• lyme
• mime
• prime
• rhyme
• slime

Kids Definition

grime

noun

ˈgrīm 

: dirt rubbed into or covering a surface

also : accumulated dirtiness and disorder

grime verb

griminess

ˈgrī-mē-nəs

noun

grimy

ˈgrī-mē

adjective