Definition of Besmirch
Quick Meaning of Besmirch
To harm someone's reputation or to make someone's character look bad by doing something shameful or wrong.
Detailed Definition of Besmirch
To damage the reputation, character, or good name of someone or something; to soil or stain morally.
How to Pronounce Besmirch
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: bis-SMURCH. The first 'i' is short (like 'it'), and the 'ch' sounds like in 'church'.
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (BES-mirch) or mispronounce the 'ch' sound. Correct: bis-SMURCH with 'ch' as in 'church'.
Origin and Etymology of Besmirch
From 'be-' (causative prefix) + 'smirch' (to soil, stain). 'Smirch' has uncertain origin but may relate to dirt or staining. Common in English since 16th century; 'besmirch' form since 17th century.
How to Use Besmirch in a Sentence
Each example shows “besmirch” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The scandal besmirched the company's reputation for decades.”
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“False accusations besmirched the politician's character during the election.”
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“His unethical behavior besmirched the honour of the entire profession.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Besmirch
Common Synonyms for Besmirch
Smart Synonyms for Besmirch — When to Use Each
- tarnish
- Slightly less severe; more commonly used for reputation
- sully
- Similar meaning; emphasizes moral purity or honour
- defame
- Legal term; implies false statements that damage reputation
Common Collocations with Besmirch
These phrases pair with “besmirch” in everyday English:
- besmirch someone's reputation
- besmirch one's honour
- besmirch someone's name
- besmirch the memory of
Common Mistakes When Using Besmirch
Even fluent speakers slip up with “besmirch”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The scandal besmirched about the company's reputation.
- ✓ Correct: The scandal besmirched the company's reputation.
- Why: 'Besmirch' is a transitive verb. It takes a direct object without 'about'.
- ✗ Wrong: His actions was besmirched his family's name.
- ✓ Correct: His actions besmirched his family's name.
- Why: 'Actions' (plural) requires 'were' if a second verb appears, but here use only one verb: 'His actions besmirched...' or 'His actions were besmirching...'
- ✗ Wrong: The accusations besmirch wrongfully the reputation.
- ✓ Correct: The accusations wrongfully besmirched the reputation. / The accusations besmirched the reputation wrongfully.
- Why: Adverbs can go before or after the main verb, but typically before in formal style.
Other Forms of Besmirch
- Noun: besmirchment
- Verb: besmirch
- Adjective: besmirched
Frequently Asked Questions About Besmirch
What is the meaning of "Besmirch"?
To harm someone's reputation or to make someone's character look bad by doing something shameful or wrong.
How do you pronounce "Besmirch"?
The IPA is /bɪˈsmɜːtʃ/. Stress the second syllable: bis-SMURCH. The first 'i' is short (like 'it'), and the 'ch' sounds like in 'church'.
What part of speech is "Besmirch"?
"Besmirch" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Besmirch"?
Common synonyms include tarnish, damage, sully.
How do you use "Besmirch" in a sentence?
For example: "The scandal besmirched the company's reputation for decades."