Besmirch -

: We have William Shakespeare to thank for popularized use of "besmirch," a variation of the simpler "smirch," which also means to stain or soil. Synonyms : Sully , blacken, defile, slander, and smear. Antonyms : Honor, enhance, clean, and purify. Popular References Besmirch - CoolStuffInc.com

: To literally dirty or stain a surface (e.g., "muddy boots besmirched the new carpet"). besmirch

: To sully or tarnish a person's standing (e.g., "the scandal besmirched the politician's career"). : We have William Shakespeare to thank for