Meaning & Definition of word "Defamation"

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.