smudge 1 of 2

verb

ˈsməj How to pronounce smudge (audio)
Definition of smudgenext
as in to stain
to make dirty she accidentally smudged her collar with the lipstick

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

smudge

2 of 2

noun

as in stain
a mark of guilt or disgrace the president's spouse must not have the slightest smudge of scandal

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of smudge
Verb
If yours are straight, drop, or smudge onto your lids, tubing technology can be your best bet. — Valeriya Chupinina, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026 The color inks didn't smudge, but the output dried showing obvious water stains. — M. David Stone, PC Magazine, 16 Aug. 2026
Noun
Matte black hides smudges, glass makes small kitchens feel bigger, and enamel brings vintage charm. — Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 21 Aug. 2026 The phone has a fingerprint-resistant finish, which is a relief for anyone who can't stand smudges. — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smudge
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smudge
  1. stain
  2. taint
  3. dirty
  4. blot
  5. blacken
Verb
  • Several others said the incident has stained India’s credibility and the Hindu religion.
    — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 8 Sep. 2026
  • That one throw, aided by some controversial officiating, helped Michigan avoid a loss that would have stained its entire season.
    — Austin Meek, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2026
Definition of stain
Noun
  • Even though Thiam denied knowledge of it and was cleared of involvement, the taint of the scandal led to his ouster.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 13 Aug. 2026
  • On top of worrying about making great wine, European producers will now have to mitigate against smoke taint, save their grapes from frost, and consider how to future-proof vineyards in a rapidly changing climate.
    — Kate Dingwall, Bon Appetit Magazine, 31 July 2026
Definition of taint
Verb
  • Satisfy your lasagna craving without dirtying up a pile of dishes.
    — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 9 July 2026
  • The zipper shoe compartment keeps your shoes from dirtying up your clothing, and the massive interior can hold many outfits for your weekend getaway.
    — Olivia Dubyak, Travel + Leisure, 9 Mar. 2026
Definition of dirty
Noun
  • If especially juicy, lightly blot with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Once the stain is gone, blot again with a clean damp cloth to remove any soap residue and allow the upholstery to air-dry completely.
    — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of blot
Verb
  • Morawetz also points to baking and air-frying as favorite preparation methods, noting that charring or blackening from direct high-heat grilling can be linked to health risks.
    — Embry Roberts, Martha Stewart, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Corbin uses cabbage as an anchor in his new and expanding Rolodex of flavors, thrusting it into the fire until the outer layers are blackened and frizzled.
    — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of blacken

Browse Nearby Words

smothers
smudge
smudged
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Cite this Entry

“Smudge.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smudge. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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