What does spray mean?
To spray means to propel a liquid or finely divided substance through the air in a stream or cloud of droplets. The verb is used for actions such as spraying water on plants, paint on a wall, or perfume into the air. As a noun, a spray can refer to the droplets themselves, the stream or mist they form, or an implement that dispenses a substance in this way. In product names, the term frequently suggests a fine, pressurized or atomized application, as in body spray, paint spray, or pepper spray. The word can also be used figuratively for a rapid and sometimes overwhelming delivery of words, questions, or attention. Although its exact historical origin is uncertain, spray was already in use in Middle English and became firmly established in its modern physical sense.
To propel, scatter, or apply a liquid or finely divided substance in small droplets or a fine stream.
"They sprayed the seedlings with water before leaving the greenhouse."
The verb commonly occurs with a direct object or in the construction “spray something with something.” Figurative uses often imply rapid, excessive, or indiscriminate delivery.
A jet, cloud, or shower of liquid droplets; a substance released in such a form; or a device that dispenses a substance in this way.
"A fine spray of mist cooled the runners as they approached the finish."
When referring to an implement or consumer product, the term commonly implies a fine or pressurized application.
The plural is used for separate applications, discharges, or devices, as in “pepper sprays” and “several sprays of insecticide.”
"The plants were treated with three sprays of pesticide."
From paint and perfume to water and deodorant, spraying lets a substance travel through the air in tiny droplets.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spray come from?
The word appears in Middle English, when spray referred to scattering liquid or another substance in small droplets. Its precise origin is uncertain, so it should not confidently be assigned a definite foreign-language ancestor. The noun developed naturally from the verb, first for an act or discharge of spraying and later also for the substance, device, or dispersed droplets involved.
Related word forms
How spray is actually used
The verb commonly takes a direct object, as in “spray the pavement,” while “spray with” identifies the substance being applied. Informal figurative uses include “spray questions at someone” and “spray someone with compliments,” both suggesting rapid or excessive delivery.
Easily confused with spray
To spray is to scatter liquid in droplets, whereas to pray is to address a deity or make a solemn request.
To spray propels liquid as a stream or mist, while to sprinkle distributes small amounts of it over or among something.