spray

UK: spreɪ | US: spreɪ

Definition

  1. n. a fine mist or jet of liquid droplets

  2. vt. to disperse liquid in fine droplets

  3. n. small branches or flowers arranged decoratively

Structure
spr <to scatter>ay <liquid/mist>
Etymology

The word "spray" originates from Middle Dutch sprāien (to sprinkle) and Old English sprǣġ (a twig or shoot), blending two conceptual roots:

  1. spr- reflects the Proto-Germanic idea of scattering or bursting outward (seen in "spring," "sprout").
  2. -ay (later simplified to -ay/-ey) likely evolved from liquid-related terms, akin to Dutch sprei (mist).
    By the 17th century, "spray" merged these meanings—both the action of dispersing liquid and the natural scattering of twigs/flowers.
Examples

  1. She used a spray bottle to water the delicate plants.

  2. Ocean spray cooled our faces as we stood near the shore.

  3. The artist sprayed graffiti on the wall with vibrant colors.

  4. A spray of cherry blossoms adorned the table centerpiece.

  5. The skunk’s spray left a pungent odor in the air.