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Synonyms for

Defamation

Noun / ˌdefʌˈmeɪʃʌn / Another word for defamation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the act of damaging someone's reputation by making false statements about them

Synonyms & similar words

calumniation denigration calumny hatchetjob aspersion obloquy traducement slander slander libel smear vilification calumny mud-slinging denigration disparagement aspersion insult abuse vituperation maligning traducement vilifying discredit stigma opprobrium detraction

Synonyms by register

Formal

calumny slander libel vilification

Informal

smear bad-mouthing character assassination trashing

Literary

aspersion obloquy calumniation

Antonyms

praise endorsement approval commendation acclaim laudation

Common collocations

  • defamation of character
  • defamation lawsuit
  • defamation of religion
  • defamation of public figure
  • defamation of private figure
  • defamation of a company
  • defamation claim

Word family

noun defamation
verb defame
adjective defamatory

Usage note

Defamation refers to the act of harming someone's reputation through false statements. It can be spoken (slander) or written (libel).

Compare "defamation" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. He accused his neighbor of defamation after she spread false rumors about him.
  2. The singer sued the magazine for defamation when they printed untrue stories about her.
  3. Defamation of character is a serious offense that can result in legal consequences.
  4. The politician was accused of defamation when he made false accusations about his opponent.
  5. The company threatened to sue the blogger for defamation when he wrote negative reviews about their products.

Quotes

  • A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes. - Mark Twain
  • It takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it. - Benjamin Franklin
  • The only thing worse than being talked about is not being talked about. - Oscar Wilde

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