To sully something means to:

To sully something specifically means to dirty, mar, or taint it, which aligns with the definition of the term. When something is sullied, it typically experiences a loss of purity or integrity, often through physical dirtiness or moral compromise. This concept can apply to both physical objects and abstract ideas, such as reputation or concepts of virtue. The usage of the word conveys a sense of degradation or spoiling, emphasizing its negative connotation.

In the context of the incorrect options, enhancing value, cleansing and purifying, or elevating status are all actions that imply improvement or a positive transformation rather than the negative implications associated with sullying. Thus, these alternatives do not represent the true meaning of the word, allowing the correct definition to stand out more clearly.