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.

Months later, he filed a lawsuit alleging defamation and said CNN had perpetrated “a deliberate scheme to defraud its own audience.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026

Carroll was awarded $83 million in a separate defamation case in 2024, based on statements that Trump made about Carroll in 2019.

From Salon • Jun. 29, 2026

Yannick was taken into custody this week when he went to police to complain of defamation.

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

Baldoni and Wayfarer later filed a $400 million defamation suit against Lively, her publicist Leslie Sloane and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, that was dismissed last year.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2026

During 33 BCE, disagreements and mistrust turned to public accusations and defamation.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby

Vocabulary lists containing defamation

All About That Baseless: Bad-Faith Accusations

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Crucible," Vocabulary from the play

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

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!