noun / verb
streak
STREEK/striːk/
A narrow continuous mark.
A thin rust-red paint streak runs across the pale ceramic tile.
Etymology
Old English strica named a pen stroke or measuring mark. That narrow linear mark became a broader term for long, thin bands, including contrasting marks in fabrics and animal coats.
In context
William looked up at that very same comet and felt something closer to comfort. To him the long streak of light was not a warning at all.
More examples
- She has a white streak in her dark hair.
- Dirty water streaks the wall beneath the window.
- The damp cloth leaves streaks on the glass.
Forms
streak · streaks · streaked · streaking
streaky adjective — Marked with long, narrow lines.