Dirt

Definition

Dirt is a noun that refers to loose earth, soil, or dust, often found on the ground or surfaces. It can also mean filth, impurities, or unclean material. Informally, it is sometimes used to mean gossip or disparaging information about someone.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɜrt/
• Respelling: DURT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɜːt/
• Respelling: DURT

Etymology

The word "dirt" originates from the Old Norse word "drit," meaning "excrement." It evolved in Middle English to include general meanings of filth and soil, losing its original connotation over time to refer more broadly to loose earth or grime.

Derivatives

• Dirty (adjective)
• Dirtiness (noun)
• Dirt-free (adjective)
• Dirtying (verb)
• Dirtied (verb)

Synonyms

• Soil
• Filth
• Grime

Antonyms

• Cleanliness
• Purity
• None

Usage

The term "dirt" is commonly used to refer to loose earth or dust, as in "The children played in the dirt." It can also mean filth on surfaces or, informally, refer to malicious gossip, as in "He had some dirt on his political opponent."

Related Terms

• Dust: Fine, dry particles of matter found in the air or on surfaces.
• Soil: The upper layer of earth where plants grow.
• Grime: Accumulated dirt, often sticky or greasy.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Loose earth or soil, especially on the ground: Refers to the fine, dry particles that make up the upper layer of the earth.
  • Example: "The plants grew well in fertile dirt."
• Filth or impurities, often accumulated on surfaces: Refers to any matter that makes a surface unclean.
  • Example: "The windows were covered in dirt after the storm."
• Gossip or disparaging information: Informally used to refer to secrets or negative information about someone.
  • Example: "The tabloids were eager for dirt on the celebrity."