Smut Meaning and Definition
Smut
Pronunciation
/smʌt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Filth or impurity; particularly used to describe matter that is objectionable or unpleasant.
Examples
- The air was thick with smut from the coal fire.
- The artist’s latest work was criticized for its explicit smut.
Synonyms
- Filth
- Rubbish
Antonyms
- Purity
- Clarity
Additional Information
Smut can refer to a wide range of impurities, from dust and dirt to more objectionable forms of matter. It is often used to describe something that is unpleasant or offensive, and can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
Smut can also refer to a light-colored fungus that grows on certain crops, particularly wheat and oats. This type of smut is often considered a pest, as it can reduce crop yields and affect the quality of the grain.
Etymology
The word “smut” comes from the Old English word “smyt”, which means “dirt” or “filth”. It has been used to describe impurities and unpleasantness since at least the 14th century.
Usage Notes
Smut is often used in literary and poetic contexts to describe something that is unpleasant or offensive. However, it is also used more broadly to describe any kind of impurity or filth.
Cultural References
Smut has been used in a number of famous literary and poetic works, including works by William Wordsworth and Robert Frost.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Smut can be used in a number of idiomatic expressions, including “smutty” to describe something that is unpleasant or offensive, and “smut-covered” to describe something that is covered in dirt or dust.
Related Words or Phrases
Words that are closely related to smut include “filth”, “dirt”, and “muck”.
Collocations
Smut is often used with words like “dirt”, “grime”, and “slime” to describe something that is unpleasant or filthy.
Frequency of Use
Smut is relatively infrequently used in modern language, particularly in formal or professional contexts. However, it is often used in literary and poetic contexts to describe something that is unpleasant or offensive.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of smut include “smood”, “smute”, and “smoot”.