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

Use this affordable, natural option to cut through grease and grime and neutralize odors. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 16 June 2026

The Cece Hand Wash effectively scrubs away dead skin cells, dirt, and grime with a clean, hydrating, antioxidant-rich formula featuring rosella extract and argan oil. —Irene Richardson, InStyle, 16 June 2026

Dish soap’s surfactants bind to grease and water, lifting grime without scrubbing. —Mallory Carra, The Spruce, 14 June 2026

Where Not to Use Vinegar in Your Oven While vinegar can safely remove grease and grime from ovens, there are a few precautions to keep in mind. —Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 13 June 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