smudgy etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English "smugge," alteration of Old English "smugan," meaning "to creep into a hole."
  • From Proto-Germanic *smugh-a-, from Proto-Indo-European *smeg-o-, meaning "to smear."

Meaning:

  • Dimly blurred, smudged, or darkened as if from rubbing with fingers.
  • Lacking clarity or definition.
  • Figuratively, morally impure or tarnished.

Origin:

The word "smudgy" originated in the 14th century. It is related to the verb "smudge," which means "to smear or blur."

The term comes from the Old English word "smugan," meaning "to creep into a hole." This suggests that smudges were originally associated with something that had been rubbed or shoved into a small space, resulting in a blurred or smudged appearance.

Over time, the meaning of "smudgy" expanded to include anything that was dimly blurred or lacking definition. It can also be used figuratively to describe someone's reputation or character as tainted or impure.

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