a damaging or derogatory remark or criticism; slander

casting aspersions on a campaign rival.

the act of slandering; vilification; defamation; calumniation; derogation

Such vehement aspersions cannot be ignored.

the act of sprinkling, as in baptism.

Archaic . a shower or spray.

noun

calmness , happiness , kindness , mildness

noun

abuse , animadversion , backbiting , backhanded compliment , black eye * , calumny , defamation , detraction , dirty dig , hit * , invective , knock * , libel , obloquy , put-down * , rap * , slam * , slander , smear * , vituperationnotes:baptism by sprinkling is aspersion , by dipping is immersion , by pouring water is affusion , calumniation , character assassination , denigration , scandal , traducement , vilification , baptism , innuendo , insult , reproach , slur