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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.

Her lawsuit, filed in the District Court for the Eastern District of California, seeks damages for violations of federal civil rights and state law, including false arrest, unlawful search and seizure, and defamation.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

The judge in the defamation case found that, on the balance of probabilities, there was substantial truth to allegations of war crimes by Roberts-Smith, who received Australia's highest military honour for bravery in 2011.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

If the accusations against her are false, she could also have a claim against her accusers for defamation and tortious interference.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Baldoni brought defamation suits against Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, their publicist, claiming they were aiming to ruin his career and reputation with the allegations, as well as the New York Times.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

More important, the defamation lawsuits chilled sympathetic coverage of civil rights activism.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson