aspersions
|ə-spɜr-ʒən|
🇺🇸
/əˈspɜrʒən/
🇬🇧
/əˈspɜːrʒən/
(aspersion)
to sprinkle; to smear (metaphorically)
Etymology
'aspersion' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'aspersio', where the root 'aspergere' (from ad- + spargere) meant 'to sprinkle' or 'to scatter'.
'aspersion' changed from Latin 'aspersio' into Old French 'aspersion' and Middle English 'aspersioun', and eventually became the modern English word 'aspersion'.
Initially, it meant 'a sprinkling' (literal sense), but over time it evolved into the figurative meaning of 'a disparaging remark or slander' (i.e., a 'sprinkling' of harmful words).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an attack on the reputation or integrity of someone; a derogatory or slanderous remark (usually used in plural: 'aspersions').
They cast aspersions on her honesty after the announcement.
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Antonyms
Noun 2
the act of sprinkling (especially of water); a ceremonial sprinkling (archaic or religious sense).
The priest performed aspersions with holy water during the blessing.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/10/31 01:06