aspersion
UK: əˈspɜːʃən | US: əˈspɜːrʒən
n. 1. A damaging or derogatory remark or criticism; slander.
n. 2. (Archaic) The act of sprinkling, especially in religious rituals.
aspersion = a<toward> + spers<sprinkle> + ion<noun suffix>
- a- (prefix): From Latin ad- ("toward").
- spers (root): From Latin spargere ("to sprinkle, scatter").
- -ion (suffix): Forms nouns indicating action or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word aspersion traces back to Latin aspersio ("a sprinkling"), derived from ad- + spargere. Originally, it referred to the literal act of sprinkling (e.g., holy water in baptism). Over time, it evolved metaphorically to mean "casting negative remarks" (as if scattering harmful words like drops of water). This shift reflects the vivid imagery of criticism being "sprinkled" onto someone’s reputation.
She refused to cast aspersions on her colleague’s integrity without evidence.
The politician faced aspersions about his past dealings during the debate.
In ancient rites, aspersion with water symbolized purification.
His speech was full of subtle aspersions against his opponents.
The journalist avoided publishing aspersions to maintain credibility.