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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.

The case has unfolded alongside a parallel legal offensive from Baldoni, who filed a sweeping $400-million countersuit accusing Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, the New York Times and others of defamation and extortion.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

In a 152-page opinion released on Thursday, Judge Lewis Liman threw out 10 of 13 claims in Lively's case, including allegations of harassment and defamation.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Exxon Mobil’s defamation case against Rob Bonta looks likelier to go to trial.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

An individual can still be sued for defamation if they post something libelous on Facebook.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

Perhaps both of them would sue him, Abelman for character defamation and Lew for forgery.

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.