Emily Dickinson Lexicon

BLAS-PHEME', v.t. [Gr. βλασφημεω. The first syllable is the same as in blame, blasme, denoting injury; probably, Fr. blesser, to hurt, that is, to strike; L. lædo, læsus. Hence in Sp. blasfemable is blamable. The last syllable is the Gr. φημι, to speak.]

1. To speak of the Supreme Being in terms of impious irreverence; to revile or speak reproachfully of God, or the Holy Spirit. – 1 Kings xxi. Mark iii.
2. To speak evil of; to utter abuse or calumny against; to speak reproachfully of. – Pope.