Definition

1. Verb:
   • To spread or smear a substance (often a thick, sticky, or messy one) over a surface, typically in a careless, excessive, or untidy manner.
   • To cover or decorate something in a showy, gaudy, or tastelessly excessive way.

Usage

The verb "bedaub" describes the action of applying a substance, usually implying the result is messy, uneven, or overly ornate. It often carries a negative connotation of carelessness or vulgar excess.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The children bedaubed the walls with finger paint.
  • The statue was bedaubed with garish gold paint, ruining its classical beauty.
  • He bedaubed his toast with an enormous amount of butter and jam.

Advanced Usage

• "to bedaub oneself with": To apply a substance (like makeup, lotion, or mud) to one's own body in a thick or excessive way.
  • The actor bedaubed himself with fake blood for the horror scene.
• Used figuratively to describe covering something with non-physical attributes in an excessive way.
  • His speech was bedaubed with flattery and insincere compliments.

Variants and Related Words

• Daub (verb): To coat or smear with a thick, sticky substance. ("Daub" is the root action, while "bedaub" often emphasizes the resulting state of being covered.)
• Bedaubed (adjective): Describing something that has been smeared or covered in such a manner.
  • The bedaubed canvas was a mess of colors.

Synonyms

• Smear: To spread a substance thinly or carelessly.
• Slather: To spread or apply thickly and generously.
• Plaster: To apply a thick layer, often implying complete coverage.
• Besmear: A close synonym meaning to smear over.

Antonyms

• Clean: To make free from dirt or marks.
• Wipe: To clean or dry by rubbing.
• Purify: To remove contaminants from.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• "Bedaub with praise/flattery": An idiomatic use meaning to excessively and often insincerely compliment someone.
  • The critics were bedaubed with praise by the publicist's aggressive campaign.

Verb

1. spread or daub (a surface)