grime

noun

ˈgrīm How to pronounce grime (audio)
Synonyms of grime
: soot, smut, or dirt adhering to or embedded in a surface
broadly : accumulated dirtiness and disorder
grime transitive verb

Synonyms of grime

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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.
Best cleanser under $35 This affordable cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen and daily grime without stripping your skin. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 31 July 2026 Vinegar contains acetic acid, which cuts through grease and grime and neutralizes odors. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 31 July 2026 Over time, those grease splatters build up around burners, while food residue collects beneath grates, and stubborn grime hides in places that a quick swipe with a sponge won’t touch. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 28 July 2026 The spritz gets rid of grease and grime and works on most surfaces in your kitchen and beyond. — Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 23 July 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

Rhymes for grime

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Browse Nearby Words

grimalkin
grime
Grime's ditch
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

grime

noun
ˈgrīm How to pronounce grime (audio)
: 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

Nglish: Translation of grime for Spanish Speakers

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