Definitions

smear campaign

NOUN

attempt to defame another

Synonyms

WEAK

character assassination defamation defamation of character dirty politics dirty pool dragging one's name through the mud injury of reputation malicious defamation mudslinging negative campaign negative campaigning personal attack slander whispering campaign

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.

People who remember that internet smear campaign related to the Lanez case know why.

From Salon • Apr. 30, 2026

Lively said the alleged smear campaign led to her losing out on acting jobs and revenue related to her alcohol and hair-care brands.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

The Center for Responsible Lending says the industry is “using false allegations as part of a smear campaign to distract from the clear harm caused by their products.”

From MarketWatch • Feb. 12, 2026

And for Olympic ice dancing champion Cizeron, it was a welcome break from off-ice issues – earlier this week he accused former partner Gabriella Papadakis of spreading false information about him in a "smear campaign".

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

Murky, speculative stuff, a smear campaign on a dead woman.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins

smear campaign

Example Sentences

Related Words