Definitions

defamation

[def-uh-mey-shuhn] / ˌdɛf əˈmeɪ ʃən /

NOUN

libel, slander

Synonyms

STRONGEST

denigration disparagement

STRONG

aspersion calumny depreciation detraction dirt dump dynamite hit knock lie mud obloquy opprobrium scorcher slam slime slur smear tale traducement vilification

WEAK

backbiting backstabbing belittlement black eye character assassination cheap shot dirty laundry low-down dirty slap in face

Antonyms

STRONG

compliment flattery praise

WEAK

approval commendation exaltation

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He was also found liable for defamation for comments he made the previous year in a post on Truth Social.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

President Trump filed a revised lawsuit against Dow Jones, publisher of The Wall Street Journal, alleging defamation and seeking billions.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

He essentially owes his position as president to Sonko, his one-time mentor who would almost certainly have taken the top job had he not been barred from the presidential election due to a defamation conviction.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

TMTG, which has sued MarketWatch for defamation over an earlier article, has plenty of cash.

From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026

Sullivan changed the standard for defamation and libel by requiring plaintiffs to prove malice—that is, evidence of actual knowledge on the part of the publisher that a statement is false.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Vocabulary lists containing defamation

All About That Baseless: Bad-Faith Accusations

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"The Crucible," Vocabulary from the play

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Just Mercy

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!