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Definition of besmirch

besmirch

/bɪˈsmɜːrtʃ/
be · smirch
Adjective:besmirched
•
Past Simple:besmirched
•
Past Participle:besmirched
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Present Participle:besmirching
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besmirch Lexical Profile

besmirch Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To damage or sully the reputation, honor, or good name of someone or something.

Example

"The unfounded rumors threatened to besmirch the scholar's lifelong record of academic integrity."

2

To make something physically dirty, stained, or discolored.

Example

"Mud from the unpaved country road had besmirched the hem of his ceremonial coat."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for besmirch

• Nearby Words

besides
besiege
besieger
besmirch
besotted
bespectacled
bespoke

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century, notably used by William Shakespeare in Hamlet, by combining the intensive prefix 'be-' with the verb 'smirch' (to stain or soil), which is likely of Middle English imitative or Old French origin.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Besmirch. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/besmirch
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