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smear

verb

/smɪər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of smear

To intentionally spread false, damaging, or unfavorable information about a person or group with the aim of tarnishing their character or credibility.
"The tabloid newspaper attempted to smear the actor's reputation with false allegations."

Detailed meaning of smear

It involves making false accusations, distorting facts, or presenting information in a misleading or exaggerated manner, often through various means such as gossip, propaganda, or media manipulation. When someone engages in a smear campaign, they attempt to undermine the reputation, integrity, or public perception of the targeted individual or organization. Smearing can involve spreading rumors, sharing malicious stories, or manipulating public opinion through targeted disinformation. This tactic is commonly employed in politics, competitive contexts, or personal disputes, where the intent is to discredit and harm the reputation of the subject. Smearing is an unethical practice that can have severe consequences for the targeted individuals or entities, as it can lead to public mistrust, damaged relationships, and professional or personal harm.

Example sentences containing smear

1. They resorted to smearing their opponent during the political campaign.
2. The rival company launched a smear campaign to tarnish our brand's image.
3. She felt devastated when she discovered someone had smeared her name on social media.
4. The disgruntled employee tried to smear the company's reputation by spreading negative reviews online.
5. The scandalous article was an attempt to smear the politician's character.
6. It is unfair and unethical to smear someone without any evidence or justification.

History and etymology of smear

The verb 'smear' has its etymological origins in the Old English word 'smerian,' which meant to anoint or apply a substance, such as oil or ointment, to a surface. This Old English term was derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'smerwōną,' which had a similar meaning of applying a substance. The transition from the act of applying a substance to its modern usage in the sense of intentionally spreading false, damaging, or unfavorable information about a person or group reflects a figurative extension of the term. Just as one would spread a substance over a surface, the word 'smear' came to represent the malicious spreading of negative information, figuratively tarnishing the reputation or character of the subject. This transformation in meaning demonstrates how language evolves to adapt to changing societal contexts and communication needs.

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Further usage examples of smear

1. The competitor resorted to smearing our product with misleading claims.
2. Her rivals sought to smear her professional reputation by spreading false rumors about her competence.
3. The celebrity's personal life was continuously smeared by the media, affecting their public image.
4. The online trolls engaged in a smear campaign against the influencer, spreading lies and hateful comments.
5. The company faced significant backlash after it was discovered that they had attempted to smear their competitors through deceptive marketing tactics.
6. It's wrong to smear someone's reputation with baseless accusations.
7. The politician attempted to smear his opponent with false claims.
8. Gossip magazines often smear celebrities for profit.
9. He used social media to smear his former colleague.
10. The competitor tried to smear our brand with misleading ads.
11. A smear campaign can harm someone's career irreparably.
12. Don't smear others with unverified rumors; it's unfair.
13. The rival company attempted to smear our product's image.
14. Spreading false information to smear someone is unethical.
15. The journalist refused to participate in a smear campaign.
16. Smearing an individual's character can have legal consequences.
17. They used the internet to smear their adversary relentlessly.
18. Politicians sometimes resort to smear tactics in debates.
19. Journalistic integrity means avoiding baseless smears.
20. The opposing team tried to smear our star player.
21. She decided not to engage in the smear campaign.
22. A smear job can destroy someone's career and personal life.
23. Fact-checking is essential to prevent false smears.
24. The scandalous article was an attempt to smear her name.
25. Always verify information before participating in a smear.