grime
UK: ɡraɪm | US: ɡraɪm
n. dirt ingrained on a surface, especially soot or filth
vt. to cover or soil with grime
"Grime" originated from Old English grīm, which initially described something fierce or severe (e.g., "grim weather"). Over time, the term shifted metaphorically to describe dirt or filth, likely due to the oppressive, unpleasant nature of both concepts. The modern spelling stabilized in Middle English, retaining the harsh connotations of its root while specializing in physical dirtiness.
The windows were covered in a thick layer of grime.
Years of neglect had grimed the once-shiny machinery.
She scrubbed the grime off the kitchen tiles.
Industrial pollution left a permanent grime on the city's buildings.
His hands were grimed after hours of gardening.