grime

noun

: soot, smut, or dirt adhering to or embedded in a surface
broadly : accumulated dirtiness and disorder
grime transitive verb

Examples of grime in a Sentence

The windows were coated with grime. this new product really cuts through grime
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In Ukrainian Village, Campbell plucked the leaves and wrappers out of his bait box, and tapped the compartment a couple of times to shake off the grime. William Tong, Chicago Tribune, 12 July 2025 The gel-oil texture is easy to use and quickly melts away dirt and grime. Iman Balagam, Vogue, 11 July 2025 It’s designed to be used with just water—no formulated cleaners—and is magical at lifting grime from grout. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 July 2025 Warm water lifts grime better and helps deep clean better than cold. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for grime

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grime was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Grime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grime. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

grime

noun
: dirt rubbed into or covering a surface
also : accumulated dirtiness and disorder
grime verb
griminess
ˈgrī-mē-nəs
noun
grimy
ˈgrī-mē
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on grime

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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