verb / noun

slather

SLATH-er/ˈslæðər/

A thick or generous application of something over a surface.

She slathers butter on her toast while it is still warm.

An older South Asian woman uses a butter knife to spread a conspicuously thick layer of butter over a slice of toast, leaving creamy ridges that clearly show generous application.

Etymology

The early meaning 'spread liberally' emphasizes generous application rather than simple spreading. The origin is uncertain, and the suggested connection with slathers, 'large amounts,' remains unestablished.

In context

Food Network85:29

So, first I'm going to slather this sandwich. And the toasted bread really is going to absorb all this great sauce.

Our Favorite Ina Garten Recipe Videos | Barefoot Contessa | Food Network

More examples

A generous slather of frosting covers the cake.
Slather sunscreen on your shoulders before heading outside.
He is slathering barbecue sauce over the ribs.

Forms

slather · slathers · slathered · slathering

Similar words

spread: Does not necessarily suggest a thick or generous application.
smear: Often suggests uneven or messy application rather than generous coverage.
coat: Emphasizes covering a surface, not how much is applied.