Smear Word (Noun)
Meaning
An epithet that can be used to smear someone's reputation; "he used the smear word `communist' for everyone who disagreed with him".
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The politician's opponents dug up an old quote to use as a smear word against him in the debate.
- Her rival started spreading rumors and attached a smear word "corrupt" to her name in every conversation.
- The comedian made a joke about politicians using smear words to sway public opinion.
- His campaign was damaged after his opponent accused him of being a reckless outsider and using smear words to tarnish her reputation.
- The activist noted that a particular smear word had been successfully used to discredit numerous dissidents throughout history.