besmirch
definition
to tarnish or damage the purity or honor of someone or something
example
The rumors began to besmirch her reputation at work, making it hard for her to get promoted.
synonyms
sullytarnishstain
word origin — The word 'besmirch' originates from the prefix 'be-' meaning 'to cause to be in a certain state' and 'smirch', which comes from the Middle English 'smirchen' meaning 'to smear or soil'.