Besmirch

Pronunciation: /bɪˈsmɜːrtʃ/

Definitions of besmirch

verb to damage the reputation of someone or something by slander or libel

Example Sentences

A1 She didn't want to besmirch her reputation by associating with the wrong crowd.

A2 The politician tried to besmirch his opponent's character with false accusations.

B1 The tabloid newspaper often publishes articles that besmirch the reputations of celebrities.

B2 It is important not to besmirch someone's name without concrete evidence.

C1 The author's attempt to besmirch the historical figure's legacy was met with backlash from scholars.

C2 The company's competitors tried to besmirch its reputation by spreading rumors about unethical business practices.

Examples of besmirch in a Sentence

formal The politician was careful not to besmirch his opponent's reputation during the debate.

informal I would never say anything to besmirch your good name.

slang Don't listen to him, he's just trying to besmirch you.

figurative The rain besmirched the once pristine white dress, leaving muddy streaks.

Grammatical Forms of besmirch

• past tense: besmirched
• plural: besmirches
• comparative: more besmirched
• superlative: most besmirched
• present tense: besmirch
• future tense: will besmirch
• perfect tense: have besmirched
• continuous tense: is besmirching
• singular: besmirch
• positive degree: besmirch
• infinitive: besmirch
• gerund: besmirching
• participle: besmirched

Origin and Evolution of besmirch

First Known Use: 0015 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'besmirch' originated from Middle English, combining the prefix 'be-' (intensifying the meaning) with 'smirchen' meaning to smear or soil.

Evolution of the word: Originally used in a literal sense to describe physically staining or soiling something, the word 'besmirch' has evolved over time to also include metaphorical meanings such as tarnishing someone's reputation or character.