English Reference

Word

streaked

US/ˈstɹikt/

UK/stɹˈiːkt/

Definition

v. to have a long, thin mark or line on something. You use this when you see a pattern of light, color, or dirt that goes across a surface.

v. marked with a long, narrow line or band of a different color or texture. Often describes the appearance of the sky, skin, or fabric.

Examples

“The sky is streaked with orange and pink at sunset.”

“After the long hike, his face was streaked with sweat and dirt from the dusty trail.”

“The old wooden beams in the attic were streaked with age and moisture, creating a pattern of dark, uneven lines that told the story of decades of neglect.”

Examples

simple

“The sky is streaked with orange and pink at sunset.”

contextual

“After the long hike, his face was streaked with sweat and dirt from the dusty trail.”

complex

“The old wooden beams in the attic were streaked with age and moisture, creating a pattern of dark, uneven lines that told the story of decades of neglect.”

Real-World Examples

“She’s wearing a lacy camisole instead of her typical billowy blouse, but her long, dark hair, now streaked with silver, is parted to the side per usual.”
The Guardian · 20 Sept 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/streaked

English Reference