spot
noun
Spot — a small, lasting mark of discredit upon an otherwise clean record
Definition
An act that brings discredit to the person who does it; "he made a huge blot on his copybook"
In depth
A spot, in this figurative sense, names an act that brings discredit to the person who does it, the word emphasizing the relatively small, localized nature of the mark left behind, even if its effect on reputation proves disproportionately lasting. The image draws on the same general metaphor as 'blot' and 'stain,' a single mark visible against an otherwise unblemished surface.
Origin
The word's origin is uncertain, possibly related to Middle Dutch spotte, a stain or speck. Its figurative use for discredit reflects the same broad metaphorical pattern shared by 'blot,' 'stain,' and 'smear,' all drawing on the visual image of a small, visible mark disrupting an otherwise clean, unmarked surface, whether literal cloth or figurative reputation.
Usage examples
"He made a huge spot on his copybook with that one careless remark, a small moment that somehow defined years of subsequent judgment."
"The scandal left a permanent spot on what had otherwise been an exemplary record of public service."
"She worked tirelessly to remove even the smallest spot from her professional reputation."
How to use it
Spot in this figurative sense of discredit is somewhat less common in contemporary usage than its synonyms, more often encountered in slightly older or more formal writing about reputation and character.
Related concepts
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