Synonyms for
Slander
Definition
Slander is a false spoken statement about someone that is meant to damage their reputation.
Synonyms & similar words
smirch
aspersion
defame
denigrate
calumny
calumniate
smear
denigration
sully
besmirch
defamation
asperse
defamation
calumny
libel
smear
vilification
accusation
falsehood
lie
rumor
gossip
talebearing
backbiting
detraction
maligning
misrepresentation
scurrility
slight
aspersion
discredit
disparagement
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Antonyms
Common collocations
- slander of title
- slander of goods
- slanderous statement
- slander lawsuit
- slander case
- slander action
- slanderous remarks
Word family
Usage note
Slander specifically refers to spoken defamation, while libel refers to written defamation. Both are forms of false statements intended to damage someone's reputation.
Example sentences
- She accused her coworker of slandering her in front of the boss.
- The company was sued for slander after making false claims about their competitor.
- He spread slanderous rumors about his ex-girlfriend to get revenge.
- The politician was cleared of slander charges after proving the statements were true.
- Gossip magazines often publish slander about celebrities to sell more copies.
Quotes
Slander is the revenge of a coward.
Slander, if it rests on truth, is no scandal; if it is a falsehood, it is a most heinous wickedness.
The only thing worse than slander is silence.