Besmirch Definition & Meaning

besmirch
verb
  1. charge falsely or with malicious intent; attack the good name and reputation of someone; "The journalists have defamed me!" "The article in the paper sullied my reputation"
  2. smear so as to make dirty or stained

Usage tips for "besmirch"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "besmirch" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for besmirch to find words that pair well.

Look up another word