besmirch crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "besmirch crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "besmirch crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SLUR: To make damaging or insulting remarks about someone.
5 Letters
TAINT: To contaminate or pollute (something), or to affect with an undesirable quality.
STAIN: A mark or discoloration that is difficult to remove; also, to damage the good reputation of (someone or something).
SULLY: To damage the purity or integrity of; defile.
6 Letters
DEFILE: To make dirty or unclean, especially in a ceremonial or moral sense, or to damage the character of.
SMIRCH: To make something dirty or to damage someone's reputation, often used as a direct synonym for besmirch.
7 Letters
ASPERSE: To attack the reputation or integrity of someone or something with false or misleading statements.
8 Letters
DISHONOR: To bring shame or disgrace upon (someone or something).
More About "besmirch crossword clue"
The word "besmirch" carries the strong connotation of tarnishing a reputation or making something seem dirty or impure. In crosswords, clues related to "besmirch" often seek synonyms that convey this sense of defilement, dishonor, or staining, both literally and figuratively. Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to solving such clues.
When you encounter 'besmirch' in a crossword, think about words that imply a loss of purity, dignity, or good standing. The answers can range from straightforward actions like 'stain' or 'sully' to more formal or intense terms like 'asperse' or 'dishonor'. Pay attention to the length of the required answer, as this is often the primary filter to select the correct word from a list of possibilities.
Sometimes, crossword setters might use a more obscure synonym or a phrase that implies besmirching. Always consider the context of the puzzle, any thematic elements, and the crossing letters to confirm your choice. The meaning of 'besmirch' is rich in synonyms, making it a versatile clue for crossword constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Carefully: For clues like "besmirch," always think of exact synonyms. Crosswords rely heavily on a word's multiple meanings and its closest counterparts.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most important guide. Always verify that your chosen word perfectly matches the given length.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The letters you fill in from other clues are invaluable. They will either confirm your answer for "besmirch" or indicate that you need to rethink your synonym choice.
- Think About Context and Part of Speech: Is the clue asking for a noun, a verb, or an adjective? "Besmirch" is a verb, so its answers will typically be other verbs, unless the clue implies a noun derived from it.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use a Thesaurus: If you're stuck, a thesaurus (digital or physical) can open up new possibilities for synonyms you hadn't considered.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'besmirch' mean in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, 'besmirch' typically refers to words meaning to damage someone's reputation, to disgrace, to stain, or to defile. Common synonyms include TAINT, STAIN, SULLY, DEFILE, or DISHONOR.
How can I find the correct synonym for a clue like 'besmirch'?
Look at the number of letters required in the answer. Consider the tense and part of speech if indicated by the clue. For 'besmirch', which is a verb, look for other verbs. Also, check intersecting letters from other clues for additional hints.
Are there common word lengths for answers to 'besmirch' clues?
Yes, common lengths vary, but you'll often find answers like SLUR (4 letters), TAINT (5 letters), STAIN (5 letters), SULLY (5 letters), DEFILE (6 letters), SMIRCH (6 letters), ASPERSE (7 letters), and DISHONOR (8 letters). The exact word length is crucial for narrowing down options.