smear
verb (used with object)
to spread or daub (an oily, greasy, viscous, or wet substance) on or over something.
smearing
-
present participleof smear.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ramos said the audio was about smearing his work, adding "no Mexican authority took responsibility for that audio."
From Barron's ● May 14, 2026
Mullin did not apologize for his remarks and instead accused Paul of smearing his character.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 18, 2026
He held a press conference outside his law office a few blocks away as rain fell, smearing reporters’ notes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 12, 2026
His ill-fated attempt to unmask a whistleblower he thought was smearing an old colleague, was seen by some – but not all – as evidence of fierce loyalty to his own troops.
From BBC ● Mar. 2, 2025
He snatched up several of the later samples, smearing them, and letting out a groan.
From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison
