Word Finder - aspersion

definition

An attack on somebody's reputation or good name, often in the phrase to cast aspersions upon….

synonyms

• calumny
• slander

definition

A sprinkling, especially of holy water.

definition

(in plural) slander, calumny

In the formulae of blessings that follow, the special efficacy against devils is implied by the aspersion with holy water; the benedictions themselves are usually merely invocative of the divine protection or assistance, though, e.g., in the form for blessing sick animals the priest prays that "all diabolic power in them may be destroyed, and that they may be ill no longer."

The act of sprinkling the water is called aspersion.

The two principal ones necessary to salvation are baptism and the Eucharist; then come the water of aspersion and the wearing of cinders, and so forth; these advance a man in sanctity.