Definition
A type of black dirt or soot that sticks to surfaces, often making them dirty or grimy.
Example
The windows were covered in grime after the storm.
Conversation

Have you seen the grime on the kitchen floor lately?

Yeah, it's pretty bad! We should definitely clean it up.

I can't believe how much grime builds up if we don't watch out.

I know, right? Let's make a plan to tackle it this weekend.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
cleanliness
purity
neatness
Definition
To cover something with dirt or soot, making it dirty or grimy.
Example
The workers grime the walls with soot from the chimney.
Tense Forms
Past: grimed
Past Participle: grimed
Conversation

I can't believe how much grime has built up on your car.

I know, right? I haven't washed it in ages!

You should really clean it before it gets worse and harder to remove the grime.
Root Explanation
Grime originates from Old English 'grima', meaning dirt or filth. The word refers to a layer of dirt or soot that accumulates on surfaces.
Memory Tip
Think of the Old English word for dirt ('grima') to remember that grime refers to a layer of dirt or filth.
Visually Confused Words
rime
begrime
rimer
prime
grume
gripe
grike
grief