Tarnish

Sully

Stain

Defame

Slander

Smear

Disgrace

Taint

1 Synonym: Tarnish

Over time, the silver spoon began to tarnish, losing its once brilliant shine.

Even a small mistake on the project could tarnish your otherwise flawless record at work.

The antique mirror's frame started to tarnish after years of exposure to moisture.

She was determined not to let a minor argument tarnish their long-standing friendship.

2 Synonym: Sully

The false accusations threatened to sully his otherwise impeccable career.

She was worried that his careless remarks might sully the family's good name.

The spilled wine sullied the pristine white tablecloth, leaving a noticeable stain.

The graffiti on the historic building sullied its once majestic appearance.

3 Synonym: Defame

The journalist was sued for attempting to defame the celebrity with false claims.

It's unethical to defame someone's character just to gain an advantage in a business deal.

The company's competitors spread rumors to defame its reputation in the market.

She felt deeply hurt when her former friend tried to defame her online.

4 Synonym: Slander

She filed a lawsuit against her former colleague for slander after he publicly criticized her work unfairly.

Slander can have serious legal consequences if the statements made are false and damaging.

She was upset to hear that her name was being used in slanderous gossip around the office.

The actor decided to take legal action after the tabloids published slanderous statements about him.