'asperse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aspergere', where 'ad-' (sometimes assimilated) meant 'to/toward' and 'spergere' (or 'spargere') meant 'to scatter or sprinkle'.

'asperse' changed from Middle English (via Old French forms such as 'aspercer') and eventually became the modern English word 'asperse'.

Initially, it meant 'to sprinkle or scatter' (often literally), but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to soil or attack someone's reputation' (figurative extension).