Meaning & Definition of word "Vilify"

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.