v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Scumbled p. pr. & vb. n. Scumbling ] [ Freq. of scum. √ 158. ] (Fine Arts) To cover lighty, as a painting, or a drawing, with a thin wash of opaque color, or with color-crayon dust rubbed on with the stump, or to make any similar additions to the work, so as to produce a softened effect. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. 1. (Fine Arts) (a) A mode of obtaining a softened effect, in painting and drawing, by the application of a thin layer of opaque color to the surface of a painting, or part of the surface, which is too bright in color, or which requires harmonizing. (b) In crayon drawing, the use of the stump. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. The color so laid on. Also used figuratively. [ 1913 Webster ]

Shining above the brown scumbling of leafless orchards. L. Wallace. [ 1913 Webster ]