As-pẽr'sion, n.

noun

n. [Fr. & Pr. aspersion, Lat. aspersio, from aspergere.]

Sense 1. A sprinkling, as of water or dust, in a literal sense.

Behold an immersion, not an aspersion. Bp. Taylor.

Sense 2. The spreading of calumnious reports or charges which tarnish reputation, like the bespattering of a body with foul water; calumny; censure.

Who would by base aspersions blot thy virtue. Dryden.

For ages after it shall be thought sacrilege to breathe an aspersion against the throne which he has occupied. W. Scott.