noun

aspersion

aspersion, slander, slur

He cast aspersions on his opponent's character.

He cast aspersions on his opponent's character.

((on sb./sth.)) to cast aspersions on sb./sth. He cast aspersions on his opponent's character.

Synonyms: slander, defamation, slur; Antonyms: praise, compliment

From Latin 'ad-' (to) + 'spargere' (to sprinkle). The sense evolved from 'sprinkling' to 'sprinkling' malicious rumors.

Think of 'sprinkling' lies or rumors on someone's reputation. The phrase 'to cast aspersions' is very common.

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