Sullying

The act of damaging the purity, integrity, or reputation of something or someone; contaminating, defiling, or tarnishing. It often implies a loss of esteem or value due to an external influence or action. This can apply to abstract concepts like reputation or honor, as well as concrete objects or environments. The resulting damage might be subtle or overt, but the core idea is a degradation of the original state. The word emphasizes the implication of a stain or blemish on something previously considered clean, worthy, or untarnished. It suggests a violation or pollution that makes something less desirable or acceptable. It is usually a deliberate action rather than an accident, but can be caused by exposure to outside elements or actions of others. The context helps to define the degree of the damage or effect.

Sullying meaning with examples

• The newspaper's decision to publish the unverified allegations was seen as sullying the reputation of the respected scientist. The controversy damaged their public image. The journalist was accused of sensationalism. The decision to print it, regardless of evidence, was seen as a blatant disregard for truth and journalistic integrity.
• The politician's involvement in the scandal ultimately led to the sullying of his political career. The repercussions were swift and decisive as supporters left him and he was no longer considered for the highest office. The corruption was seen as a fatal flaw of his campaign that ended in defeat.
• Environmentalists protested the factory's waste disposal practices, accusing them of sullying the pristine beauty of the river. The industrial waste damaged the delicate balance of nature. The impact on the wildlife was significant as their home became uninhabitable. The polluting was seen as a direct attack on the community.
• The deliberate act of spreading misinformation online resulted in the sullying of the truth and trust among the public. Many found this action unacceptable and refused to believe what they heard on social media. Lies were spread online that influenced voters decisions. People's confidence in institutions and their leaders diminished greatly.
• The act of graffiti and vandalism aimed at the memorial was seen as an act of sullying a symbol of peace and remembrance. Such acts were seen by people who opposed them as a desecration of the people represented in the memorial. To damage the historical monument was also a form of disrespect.