besmirch
verb (used with object)
to soil; tarnish; discolor.
besmirching
-
present participleof besmirch.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Instead, “People getting ready to do things” is spelled out in egg yolk, besmirching the virginal purity of its white satin support; and “It’s only vanishing cream” is translucent shellac disappearing against deathly black.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 7, 2024
The businesses declared themselves outraged by the government besmirching their reputation.
From BBC ● Jan. 18, 2023
Like, say, besmirching an evening that featured Black women making Oscars history, with Regina Hall and Wanda Sykes joining Amy Schumer as the first trio of women to host the show.
From Salon ● Mar. 28, 2022
Holmes ought to be ashamed of besmirching the fine reputation many of us have worked to build.
From Seattle Times ● Jan. 14, 2022
Moreover, if you fall into the mire, you cannot expect to get out of it again without besmirching yourself.
From The Malady of the Century by Max Simon Nordau
