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Defamation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defamation

[หŒdefษ™หˆmeษชสƒ(ษ™)n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal term

Defamation is the act of damaging the reputation of a person or group by making false statements. It can be done through spoken words (slander) or written words (libel). Defamation can harm a person's reputation, leading to loss of business, social standing, or mental distress.

Synonyms

character assassination, libel, slander.

Examples of usage

  • He was sued for defamation after spreading false rumors about his coworker.
  • The company faced a defamation lawsuit for falsely accusing their competitor of unethical practices.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Aspects

  • In many countries, defamation includes both slander (spoken) and libel (written).
  • A key factor is whether the statement was made with 'malice' or intent to harm.
  • Public figures have a higher burden of proof in these cases than private individuals.

Historical Origins

  • The term originates from Latin, where 'defamare' means 'to defame or slander'.
  • Defamation laws have roots in ancient Roman law, which protected citizens against false claims.
  • In medieval England, accusations that damaged someoneโ€™s reputation were often punishable by law.

Media and Pop Culture

  • Several high-profile celebrity cases have brought attention to defamation, highlighting its implications in social media.
  • Films and documentaries often explore themes of defamation and its impacts on personal and professional lives.
  • Books on reputation management frequently cover legal strategies related to defamation.

Psychology

  • Victims of defamation may experience significant emotional distress, including anxiety and depression.
  • Public perception and popularity can drastically change due to a single defamatory statement.
  • People may develop distrust toward others, affecting their social relationships after experiencing defamation.

Ethics

  • Ethical journalism stresses the importance of verifying information to avoid defamation.
  • Defamation raises significant ethical questions about free speech versus protecting individuals' rights.
  • Online platforms have started implementing guidelines to minimize harmful false claims while still supporting free expression.

Origin of 'defamation'

The term defamation originated from the Latin word 'diffamatio', which means 'the act of spreading lies or damaging someone's reputation'. Throughout history, defamation has been a common legal issue, with various cultures and societies developing laws to protect individuals from false statements. In modern times, defamation laws have evolved to encompass both traditional media and online platforms, reflecting the importance of reputation in the digital age.

See also: defamatory.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,087, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.