Ouze is a noun that refers to a variant spelling of the word "ooze." Ooze, originating from the Middle English word "wose," primarily describes a soft, slimy deposit or substance, typically found in wet or muddy areas. It can refer to a mixture of mud, sediment, or decaying organic matter, often formed by the gradual seepage of water through the ground. Ooze is typically characterized by its semi-liquid or viscous consistency, making it prone to oozing or slowly flowing.

The term "ouze" can encompass various contexts, such as a coastal ouze found along shorelines or estuaries, where the combination of tides, water flow, and sediment results in a particular type of ooze. Furthermore, it may refer to the oozy substance found in marshes, bogs, or wetlands, which is rich in decomposed plant matter and provides a conducive environment for microbial activity.

Metaphorically, ouze is occasionally used to describe something that exudes gradually or spreads in a slow, steady manner, typically with negative connotations. For instance, one might say "corruption oozed through the government," suggesting that it permeated slowly but continuously. Overall, ouze describes the characteristic soft, slimy, and semi-liquid nature of various substances, particularly those associated with wet environments or gradual seepage.