† beˈspurtle, v. Obs.
[f. be- 4 + spurtle.]
1. A frequentative variant of prec.
1618 Bolton Florus (1636) 245 Merula..bespurtled the eyes of Iove himselfe, with the blood. a 1655 T. Adams Pract. Wks. (1861) III. 21 (D.) They sputter their venom abroad, and bespurtle others. |
2. fig. To asperse with reproach or abuse; to spot or sully with vice.
1604 Marston Malcontent i. ii. (D.) Trot about, and bespurtle whom thou pleasest. 1629 J. Maxwell tr. Herodian 77 He bespurtled his life with foule Vices. |