besmirch

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. verb charge falsely or with malicious intent; attack the good name and reputation of someone
  2. verb smear so as to make dirty or stained

Etymology

From Middle English besmorchen (attested in besmorchid). Compare Middle English bismotered (“bespattered, soiled”). By surface analysis, be- + smirch.

In classic literature

Synonyms

defame, slander, smirch, asperse, denigrate, calumniate, smear, sully

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