kladdar

Kladdar is a Swedish term that can function as both a plural noun and the present tense form of the verb kladda. As a plural noun, kladdar denotes a collection of smears, stains, or messy marks left by substances such as ink, paint, glue, chocolate, or other materials. The singular form is kladd, meaning a single smear or blot. The related verb kladda means to smear or to make a mess, and its present tense form is kladdar.

In everyday use, kladdar commonly describe doodles or stains on paper, surfaces, clothing, or hands. The word is frequent in family and school contexts, where children’s drawings or crafts often generate many kladdar. It can also refer more generally to any messy, smeared area or residue produced during activities like painting or cooking.

The adjective kladdig is closely related and describes something sticky or smeared. While kladdar carries a neutral to descriptive sense, it is generally used without strong judgment, though some contexts may imply carelessness or informality in the marks made. The term fits into a broader Swedish vocabulary for texture and mess, alongside related words for stickiness, smudges, and craft-related messes.