dirt

word

/ˈdɝt/
durt
/dˈɜːt/
durt

Definition

Dirt is any unwanted dust, mud, or mess on something. It can also mean soil or earth, especially the loose ground in a garden or outside.

Usage & Nuances

Very common in everyday English. 'Dirt' is often uncountable: 'There is dirt on the floor.' For soil in gardening, 'soil' sounds more technical, while 'dirt' is more everyday. It can also appear in expressions like 'dig up dirt on someone' meaning to find embarrassing secrets.

Example Sentences

There is dirt on your shoes.

basic

The kids are playing in the dirt.

basic

Please clean the dirt off the table.

basic

My dog tracked dirt all over the house after the rain.

natural

You can see every little bit of dirt on this black shirt.

natural

The reporter tried to dig up dirt on the mayor.

natural