grime

noun

: 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.
The residue leaves a film that attracts grime, can conflict with other cleaning products to form dangerous fumes and find its way into your food. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 1 Jan. 2025 Once the garbage disposal is unobstructed, use a scrub brush or old toothbrush, as well as dish soap or drain cleaner to cleanse around the disposal impellers and dislodge grime. Julia Mitchem, Architectural Digest, 30 Dec. 2024 This 2020 Best of Beauty-winning formula has hydrating glycerin and hydrolyzed linseed, which is rich in omega fatty acids, to keep curls from drying out as it gets rid of grime on your hair and scalp. Sarah Hoffmann, Allure, 22 Dec. 2024 This gentle gel cleanser can wash away dirt, grime, and makeup in one fell swoop. Abbey Stone, SELF, 29 Nov. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near grime

Cite this Entry

“Grime.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/grime. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on grime

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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