What is another word for soot?

Here are some words that can be used as synonyms for soot, depending on the context:

General:

* Black

* Dust

* Ash

* Carbon

* Grime

* Smoke residue

More specific:

* Lampblack (soot from oil lamps)

* Coal dust

* Chimney sweep (referring to the profession)

* Blackening (referring to the process of covering something in soot)

Figurative:

* Smudge (a mark or stain left by soot)

* Stain

* Dirt

* Pollution

The best synonym will depend on the specific situation and the tone you're trying to convey.