Sully

/ˈsəlē/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to damage the purity or integrity of; to taint or stain.

The scandal has sullied the politician's reputation.

to make dirty or unclean.

The oil spill sullied the pristine beach.

to soil or tarnish.

He worried that his actions might sully the family's name.

Middle English 'sulien,' to defile; of uncertain origin.

sully one's name

To damage one's reputation.

sully the waters

To make a situation or discussion difficult or unclear.

defile

To make unclean or unpure.

stain

A mark or discoloration.

To mess up or ruin something.

Don't sully the party by bringing bad vibes.

To cause trouble or drama.

He really sullied the group's fun with his complaints.