grime

noun

Synonyms of grimenext
: soot, smut, or dirt adhering to or embedded in a surface
broadly : accumulated dirtiness and disorder
grime transitive verb

Examples of grime in a Sentence

The windows were coated with grime. this new product really cuts through grime
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
After months of cold weather, your windows are likely coated with a layer of grime that dulls your view and makes even the brightest day feel a little gray. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 30 Mar. 2026 Screens should get a gentle rinse at the same time since dirty screens transfer grime right back onto clean glass. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 30 Mar. 2026 Each pad features scrubbing strips that work hard to remove grime and stains and, when combined with a premixed solution, thoroughly clean floors. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2026 Akers nails 1970s New York’s glitz and grime as Bernie interviews an assortment of renowned chefs, fellow critics, criminals as well as Tirel’s business associates and son, Henri, who also happens to be an old flame. Paula L. Woods, Los Angeles Times, 19 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for grime

Word History

Etymology

Middle Dutch grime soot, mask; akin to Old English grīma mask

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of grime was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Grime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grime. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

grime

noun
: dirt rubbed into or covering a surface
also : accumulated dirtiness and disorder
grime verb
griminess
ˈgrī-mē-nəs
noun
grimy
ˈgrī-mē
adjective

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