defile meaning and definition

DEFILE noun

Definition of defile (noun)

1. a narrow pass (especially one between mountains)
   • synonyms: gorge

DEFILE verb

Definition of defile (verb)

1. place under suspicion or cast doubt upon
   • "sully someone's reputation"
   • synonyms: cloud, corrupt, sully, taint
2. make dirty or spotty, as by exposure to air; also used metaphorically
   • "The silver was tarnished by the long exposure to the air"; "Her reputation was sullied after the affair with a married man"
   • synonyms: maculate, stain, sully, tarnish
3. spot, stain, or pollute
   • "The townspeople defiled the river by emptying raw sewage into it"
   • synonyms: befoul, foul, maculate