1
as in paints
to rub an oily or sticky substance over
the toddler gleefully smeared her hair and face with maple syrup
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in libels
to make untrue and harmful statements about
he is willing to smear his opponent if doing so would win the election
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smears
Verb
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That paints the picture of a top-10 quarterback in the NFL.—
Doug Kyed,
Boston Herald,
25 Sep. 2025 -
An ion implanter paints microscopic transistors to create circuits.—
Paul Sutter,
Space.com,
23 Sep. 2025
Noun
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From pretreating stains to drying methods and brightening tricks, here’s exactly how to wash white towels the right way.—
Daley Quinn,
Southern Living,
4 Oct. 2025
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After the hat has cooled, Rosa—a factory floor veteran of 30 years—will steam it to relax the fur’s fibers, and then inspect it for stains and imperfections.—
Eric Twardzik,
Robb Report,
3 Oct. 2025
Verb
-
Bloom is the fine, powdery film that coats grapes, giving them a frosty appearance.—
Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
28 Sep. 2025
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During winter, mist from the falls coats everything — including scaffolding — in a dangerous skin of ice.—
The Washington Post,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
27 Sep. 2025
Noun
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But glass doesn't do a good job of hiding dust, finger prints, and smudges.—
Brandee Gruener,
Southern Living,
24 Sep. 2025
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Stainless steel appliances add a sleek, modern touch to any kitchen, but keeping them free from fingerprints and smudges can be a serious challenge.—
Mary Cornetta,
Better Homes & Gardens,
19 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Paul Thomas Anderon’s newest movie is very much a comedy, but Hall is mostly on hand during its graver political insinuations.—
Matthew Jacobs,
Vulture,
30 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Smears.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smears. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.
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