Vocabulary Spotlight
Besmirch
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To damage the reputation or honor of someone; to make something dirty or tarnished.
“The scandal threatened to besmirch his good name in the community.”
Pronunciation
[bih-smurch]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Tarnish
Defame
Soil
Stain
Antonyms
Honor
Praise
Uphold
Purify
Related Words
Demean
Dishonor
Word Origin
“Besmirch” originates from Middle English “smerchen,” meaning “to smear or defile.” It suggests tarnishing a reputation or making something unclean.
Word Family
Verb: Besmirch – To tarnish or sully.
Verb: Smirch – To stain or dirty.
Noun: Smirch – A stain or mark.
Mnemonics
Think “be-smirch” – to “smear” or stain something, often used for tarnishing one’s honor.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal cases, lawyers might argue against evidence that could besmirch their client’s reputation unfairly.
Media
In media, public figures can be besmirched by scandalous stories that affect their public image.
Literature
In literature, characters may be besmirched by rumors or accusations that affect their standing in society.
In Context
“Besmirch” is often used to describe an action that damages someone’s honor or makes something dirty, either figuratively or literally.