Meaning & Definition of word "Defamation"
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Defamation
/ˌdɛf.əˈmeɪ.ʃən/
noun:
- 1. The action of damaging the good reputation of someone; slander or libel.
- Example: The celebrity filed a lawsuit for defamation after false statements were published about her in the press.
- 2. A false accusation that is intended to harm someone's reputation.
- Example: His career was almost ruined by the defamation spread by his rivals.
- 3. The act of making untrue statements about another person that injure their reputation.
- Example: Defamation can lead to serious legal consequences for those who spread false information.
Etymology
From Latin 'defamatio'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
defamation of character:
The legal term for intentionally harming someone's reputation.
sue for defamation:
To take legal action against someone for damaging one's reputation.
Related Words
slander:
The action of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation.
libel:
A published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation.
Slang Meanings of defamation
Meaning: Throwing shade
Example Sentence: Her comments about his work were just throwing shade, a form of defamation.
Meaning: Trash talking
Example Sentence: The players were trash talking online, and it led to accusations of defamation.