smattering

1 of 2

noun

smat·​ter·​ing ˈsma-tə-riŋ How to pronounce smattering (audio)
Synonyms of smatteringnext
1
: superficial piecemeal knowledge
… a smattering of carpentry, house painting, bricklaying …—Alva Johnston
2
: a small scattered number or amount
a smattering of spectators

smattering

2 of 2

present participle of smatter entry 1

Synonyms of smattering

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Noun

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Examples of smattering in a Sentence

Noun She only knows a smattering of German. a smattering of guests at the art exhibit
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.
Noun
Expect smatterings of New England leaves to be on display throughout the journey. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 Some of this material is just a cut above cliché, a way of providing readers with a smattering of cultural reference. — David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 Activity scheduling generally follows daily circadian rhythms, so more intensive experiences are clustered in the mornings, with a smattering in the afternoon that tapers off in time for slow sunset yoga or meditation. — Jessica Ritz, Travel + Leisure, 30 Aug. 2026 He was welcomed back with mostly cheers, and a smattering of boos, from fans in his first game as a visitor at Comerica Park since being traded this month. — ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smattering

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1538, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of smattering was in 1538

Rhymes for smattering

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Browse Nearby Words

smatterer
smattering
smattery
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Cite this Entry

“Smattering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/smattering. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

smattering

noun
smat·​ter·​ing ˈsmat-ə-riŋ How to pronounce smattering (audio)
1
: a small amount of knowledge
a smattering of French
2
: a small scattered number
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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