Meaning & Definition of word "Vilify"
to
Vilify
/ˈvɪl.ɪ.faɪ/
verb:
- 1. To speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner.
- Example: The politician tried to vilify his opponent by spreading false rumors.
- 2. To lower in worth or value; to make someone or something seem less important.
- Example: The media vilified the celebrity for her controversial comments.
- 3. To defame; to attack the reputation of someone.
- Example: It's unfair to vilify someone based on hearsay without any evidence.
Etymology
From Latin 'vilificare', from 'vilis' meaning 'cheap' or 'worthless'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
vilify someone:
To speak critically about someone, making them appear bad.
vilified by public opinion:
Being judged harshly by society at large.
to vilify a reputation:
To damage someone's good name through slander.
Related Words
vilification:
The act of vilifying or the state of being vilified.
villain:
A character whose evil actions or motives are important to the plot.
vile:
Extremely unpleasant; morally bad.
Slang Meanings of vilify
Meaning: To trash talk someone
Example Sentence: He got online to vilify his competitor.
Meaning: To drag someone’s name through the mud
Example Sentence: After the scandal, they tried to vilify her reputation on social media.