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besmirch Synonyms

Another word for besmirch

Choosing another word for besmirch depends on context, so the 17 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

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

Usage Example

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

Strongest
sully
tarnish
smear
Strong
taint
defame
malign
slur
blacken
disgrace
dishonor

• verb (Context 2)

To make something physically dirty, stained, or discolored.

Usage Example

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

Strongest
smirch
soil
stain
smudge
Strong
begrime
befoul
dirty

Opposites of besmirch

The opposite of besmirch shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

honor
cleanse
clean
exalt
glorify
purify
wash
vindicate
See all opposites of besmirch

• Nearby Words

besides
besiege
besieger
besmirch
besotted
bespectacled
bespoke

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Besmirch. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/besmirch
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