Badmouthing: meaning, definitions and examples
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badmouthing
[ ˈbædˌmaʊθɪŋ ]
speaking negatively
Badmouthing refers to the act of speaking ill or disparaging someone, often with the intent to harm their reputation. This behavior can occur in both personal and professional settings. When someone engages in badmouthing, they might spread rumors or make derogatory remarks. The intent behind badmouthing often reveals personal grievances or rivalry.
Synonyms
defaming, denigrating, disparaging, slandering
Examples of usage
- She was always badmouthing her colleagues at work.
- He lost friends because of his constant badmouthing.
- Stop badmouthing your neighbor; it's unnecessary.
- They were caught badmouthing the competitor during the meeting.
Translations
Translations of the word "badmouthing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 falar mal
🇮🇳 बदनाम करना
🇩🇪 schlechtreden
🇮🇩 mencela
🇺🇦 погано говорити
🇵🇱 mówić źle
🇯🇵 悪口を言う
🇫🇷 dire du mal
🇪🇸 hablar mal
🇹🇷 kötülemek
🇰🇷 욕하다
🇸🇦 التحدث بالسوء
🇨🇿 hanobit
🇸🇰 ohovárať
🇨🇳 诋毁
🇸🇮 klevetati
🇮🇸 málfari
🇰🇿 жаман айту
🇬🇪 ცუდი საუბარი
🇦🇿 pisləmək
🇲🇽 hablar mal
Etymology
The term 'badmouthing' is a compound word formed by combining 'bad' and 'mouthing'. The word 'bad' originates from Old English 'bæddel', meaning 'evil' or 'wicked'. The word 'mouthing' is derived from 'mouth', which has its roots in Old English 'muð', meaning 'the mouth', and refers to the act of speaking or uttering words. The concept of badmouthing has been common in various cultures, especially in contexts where reputation and honor are significant. The practice can be traced back to ancient times, where gossip and slander played crucial roles in social dynamics. Over the years, as society has evolved, so has the interpretation of badmouthing, with a more notable emphasis on its effects in a digital era where information spreads rapidly.