smudge (smŭj)

v., smudged, smudg·ing, smudg·es.

v.tr.

1. To make dirty, especially in one small area.
2. To smear or blur (something).
3. To fill (an orchard or another planted area) with dense smoke from a smudge pot in order to prevent damage from insects or frost.

v.intr.

1. To smear something as with dirt, soot, or ink.
2. To become smudged: Photo negatives smudge easily.

n.

1. A blotch or smear.
2. A smoky fire used as a protection against insects or frost.

[Middle English smogen.]

smudgily smudg'i·ly adv.
smudginess smudg'i·ness n.
smudgy smudg'y adj.

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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