What does the cryptic crossword clue "Shakespearean killer with tongue for slander (7)" mean?

The definition is "slander". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). ASP (synonym="“Shakespearean killer” of Cleopatra") + ERSE (synonym="Irish Gaelic language, “tongue”") = ASPERSE; definition: "slander" The answer is ASPERSE.

Shakespearean killer with tongue for slander (7)

Guardian Cryptic #29323 | 19 Down | 2024-03-06 flower

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