# smyth

/ˈsmaɪθ/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/smyth
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

an old way of spelling 'smith'. It refers to a person who makes things out of metal, like a blacksmith.

For teachers: an archaic spelling of 'smith', referring to a worker in metal. Often found in historical texts or as a surname.

## Examples

- The village smyth worked at the forge all day.
- In medieval records, the local smyth was often the most important craftsman for maintaining farming tools.
- While the modern spelling has replaced it in common usage, the term smyth persists in genealogical research and historical literature describing the metalworking trades of the Middle Ages.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is a smyth by trade." but "He is a smith by trade." — Unless writing historical fiction or referring to a specific surname, use the modern spelling 'smith'.

## Usage notes

- Archaic spelling; in modern English, 'smith' is the standard form.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.