smattering

American  

[smat-er-ing] / ˈsmæt ər ɪŋ /

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.

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adjective

1. slight or superficial.

smattering British  

/ ˈsmætərɪŋ /

noun

1. a slight or superficial knowledge

2. a small amount

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Other Word Forms

• smatteringly adverb

Etymology

Origin of smattering

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

Example Sentences

They arrived at the counter, its frosted-glass window taped with a smattering of flyers, some with print faded in the sun, the corners of their paper curling with age.

From Literature

His portfolio spans stakes in a fiber-optic network, the Los Angeles Lakers, Zoom and a smattering of drug and health-tech firms with a mixed record.

From The Wall Street Journal

There was a smattering of encouragement for Torak, although he guessed it was less genuine support than pleased surprise that he was lasting longer than expected.

From Literature

Even the Sweet 16—usually populated by a smattering of mid-major underdogs—was made up exclusively of schools from power conferences.

From The Wall Street Journal

But most stops on Tour still only drew a smattering of the best pros.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• modicum
• smidgen