Pronunciation: [skˈʌmbə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "scumble" is spelled with a silent "b" at the end. The IPA phonetic transcription for the word is /ˈskʌmbəl/. The "s" at the beginning is pronounced as a voiceless "s" sound. The "c" is pronounced as a soft "k" sound. The "u" is pronounced with a short "uh" sound. The "m" is pronounced as an "m" sound. Finally, the silent "b" at the end is not pronounced. The word "scumble" means to soften or blend the edges of a paint stroke.
Scumble is a verb that refers to the act of applying a thin layer of paint, typically a lighter shade than the underlying color, in order to create a soft, blurry, or hazy effect on a surface. The purpose of scumbling is to alter the texture, tone, or appearance of the base layer of paint, often to achieve a more subtle or atmospheric quality in a painting.
The technique of scumbling involves using a dry brush or a soft cloth to lightly and gently apply the paint over the desired area. By using a scumbling technique, artists can subtly blend or soften hard edges, tones, or colors, resulting in a more harmonious and ethereal appearance. This method is commonly employed in oil painting or acrylic painting, but it can also be used in other mediums, such as watercolors or pastels.
The term "scumble" can also function as a noun to describe the layer of paint that has been applied with the scumbling technique. A scumble layer is usually transparent or semi-transparent and can be used to add depth, atmosphere, or texture to a painting. Additionally, scumble can refer to the act of deliberately painting in a loose or imprecise manner, allowing colors or tones to bleed or blend together.
In summary, scumble is a painting technique that involves applying a thin, soft layer of paint, often of a lighter shade, over the underlying color to achieve a blurry or hazy effect, creating atmosphere, depth, and softening hard edges.
To spread or rub colours very thinly over other colours in order to modify the effect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "scumble" originated from the Middle Dutch word "schimpen" which means "to mock" or "to deride". It was later borrowed into Middle English as "scrimpen" meaning "to shrink" or "to contract". Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer to the technique used in painting, particularly in applying a thin, opaque or translucent layer of paint to alter or soften the appearance of a surface.
