aspersion means An attack on somebody's reputation or good name, often in the phrase to cast aspersions upon…. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 77 out of 100.
Why this word is great
ASPERSION — [Noun] A damaging or disparaging remark that attacks someone's reputation, often used in the phrase 'to cast aspersions (upon).' From the Latin aspersionem, from aspersio ('a sprinkling'), from aspergere ('to sprinkle on, bespatter'). Unlike slander, which demands legal falsity, or criticism, which may traffic in facts, aspersion traffics in the insinuating mote, the artful hint of doubt planted in a trusted narrative. It is the muttered aside in a committee meeting, the speculative 'one wonders' in a biography, the fine, almost invisible spray of mud that clings and darkens—a slow poison administered in a persistent mist, leaving only the cold residue of suspicion.
noun
- An attack on somebody's reputation or good name, often in the phrase to cast aspersions upon….“No criminality can be infered or punishment inflicted, but for writing, printing, uttering, or publishing false, scandalous and malicious aspersions against the government.”
- A sprinkling, especially of holy water.“If thou dost break her virgin knot before
All sanctimonious ceremonies may
With full and holy rite be minister'd,
No sweet aspersion shall the heavens let fall
To make this contract grow; but barren hate […]”