Defamatory

/dɪˈfæməˌtɔri/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Tending to harm someone's reputation by making false statements.

The article contained defamatory remarks that could damage the politician's image.

Characterized by slander or libel.

She filed a lawsuit against the author for publishing defamatory statements about her in his book.

Involving falsehoods or misrepresentations meant to malign.

His career was almost ruined by a defamatory campaign started by his rivals.

From Middle French 'défamer', meaning to defame.

defamatory statement

A statement that unfairly criticizes someone.

defamatory remark

A remark that is damaging to someone's reputation.

defamation

The act of defaming someone.

defame

To damage someone's reputation by false statements.

libel

A published false statement that damages a person's reputation.

slander

The action of making a false spoken statement that injures someone's reputation.

Hating on someone publicly.

She was called out for being defamatory against her ex online.

Throwing shade.

His tweet was pure shade, totally defamatory.