English Synonym Finder

besmirch

Definitions

To damage the reputation of someone or something in the opinion of others.

To make something dirty or discolored; to soil.

Examples

The politician tried to besmirch his opponent's reputation with a series of false accusations.

She refused to let the scandal besmirch the hard-earned legacy of her family.

He felt that the graffiti on the monument served only to besmirch the memory of the fallen soldiers.

Synonyms

tarnish sully stain smear defile discredit blacken

Antonyms

honor exalt praise cleanse purify vindicate glorify