besmirching - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

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besmirching

|be/smirch/ing|

🇺🇸

/bɪˈsmɜrtʃɪŋ/

🇬🇧

/bɪˈsmɜːtʃɪŋ/

(besmirch)

damage reputation

Base Form	3rd Person Sing.	Past	Past Participle	Present Participle
besmirch	besmirches	besmirched	besmirched	besmirching

Etymology

Etymology Information

'besmirch' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'besmirchen,' where 'be-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'smirch' meant 'to soil or stain.'

Historical Evolution

'besmirchen' transformed into the modern English word 'besmirch.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to soil or stain thoroughly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to damage the reputation or appearance of someone or something.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to damage the reputation or appearance of someone or something.

The scandal has besmirched his reputation.

Synonyms

tarnish sully stain

Antonyms

cleanse purify

Verb 2

present participle form of 'besmirch'.

She is besmirching his good name.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Examples

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45