smattering

[smat-er-ing]

noun

1. a slight, superficial, or introductory knowledge of something.

   a smattering of Latin.

2. a small amount or number.

   She’s written a smattering of poetry.

adjective

1. slight or superficial.

smattering

/ ˈsmætərɪŋ /

noun

1. a slight or superficial knowledge

2. a small amount

Other Word Forms

• smatteringly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of smattering¹

First recorded in 1530–40; smatter + -ing ¹ ( def. ).

Example Sentences

Thousands of feet below, a smattering of old homesteads spread out like playing cards on a poker table.

From Los Angeles Times

A smattering of customers walked through Santee Alley — a normally colorful experience.

From Los Angeles Times

Couches and chairs were arranged in a circle with a smattering of throw rugs at the center.

From Los Angeles Times

With a smattering of Electric Six's saucy disco funk, Milkshake Man is tasty enough to get Australia back in the finals after only achieving a semi last year.

From BBC

But there also were many seniors on fixed incomes who had paid off their homes decades ago, as well as a smattering of young, middle-income families.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• modicum 
• smidgen