Definition

A person who makes damaging or false statements about someone or something, often to harm their reputation.

Example

The politician was careful not to let any aspersers affect his campaign.

Conversation

Did you hear what Jake said about Sarah?

Yeah, he really sounded like an asperser when he talked about her.

It's so unnecessary to put someone down like that.

I agree, it just creates more negativity in the group.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Asperser is derived from the Latin 'aspergere' (meaning to sprinkle or scatter), which is formed from 'ad-' (meaning to) and 'spargere' (meaning to scatter). The word 'asperser' refers to someone who sprinkles or scatters, often in a figurative sense, such as casting aspersions or doubts.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'scattering' ('spargere') doubts or criticisms 'to' ('ad-') others — that's why asperser means to cast doubt.

Visually Confused Words