smattering
[ smat-er-ing ]
/ ˈsmæt ər ɪŋ /
noun
a slight, superficial, or introductory knowledge of something: a smattering of Latin.
adjective
slight or superficial.
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Which Words Did English Take From Other Languages?English—is one of the most incredible, flavorfully-complex melting pots of linguistic ingredients from other countries. These linguistic ingredients are called loanwords that have been borrowed and incorporated into English. The loanwords are oftentimes so common now, the foreign flavor has been completely lost.
Nearby words
Related formssmat·ter·ing·ly, adverb
Definition for smattering (2 of 2)
smatter
[ smat-er ]
/ ˈsmæt ər /
verb (used with object)
to speak (a language, words, etc.) with superficial knowledge or understanding.
to dabble in.
noun
slight or superficial knowledge; smattering.
Origin of smatter
1300–50; Middle English; perhaps < Scandinavian; compare Danish, Norwegian smadre to splash, swash, Swedish smattra to clatter, rattle; compare Middle Low German smetern to chatter
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for smattering
British Dictionary definitions for smattering (1 of 2)
smattering
/ (ˈsmætərɪŋ) /
noun
a slight or superficial knowledge
a small amount
Derived Formssmatteringly, adverb
British Dictionary definitions for smattering (2 of 2)
smatter
/ (ˈsmætə) /
noun
a smattering
verb
(intr) rare to prattle
(tr) archaic to dabble in
Derived Formssmatterer, noun
Word Origin for smatter
C14 (in the sense: to prattle): of uncertain origin; compare Middle High German smetern to gossip
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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