scumble

[ skuhm-buhl ]

verb (used with object)

, scum·bled, scum·bling.

1. to soften (the color or tone of a painted area) by overlaying parts with opaque or semiopaque color applied thinly and lightly with an almost dry brush.

noun

1. the act or technique of scumbling.
2. the effect produced by this technique.

scumble

/ ˈskʌmbəl /

verb

1. (in painting and drawing) to soften or blend (an outline or colour) with an upper coat of opaque colour, applied very thinly

noun

1. the upper layer of colour applied in this way
2. the technique or effects of scumbling

Word History and Origins

Origin of scumble¹

1790–1800; perhaps equivalent to scum (v.) + -le, with intrusive b

Word History and Origins

Origin of scumble¹

C18: probably from scum