smear word

noun

: an epithet applied to a person or group in order to degrade, blacken, or make unjust or unfounded accusations

time was … when independents in politics were rare and mugwump was a smear word

—W. E. Binkley

strained relations may be expressed in clique formation, subtle whispers and shrugs, smear words, discrimination in clubs and dances

—F. J. Brown & J. S. Roucek

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