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Defame Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defame

[dɪˈfeɪm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

slander

To damage the reputation of someone by false statements; to slander or libel.

Synonyms

libel, slander.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defame

Used when someone damages another person's good name or reputation, often through spoken or written statements. This term is more general and can apply to both slander and libel.

  • The politician claimed that the news article was intended to defame him.
slander

Best used for spoken statements that are damaging to a person's reputation. This could happen in conversations, speeches, or any oral communication.

  • He threatened to sue his coworker for slander after hearing the false rumors she spread about him.
libel

Appropriate for written statements or published materials that harm someone's reputation. This includes books, newspapers, magazines, and online content.

  • She filed a lawsuit against the magazine for libel after they published false information about her.

Examples of usage

  • He was defamed by the tabloids.
  • She sued the magazine for defaming her character.
Context #2 | Verb

accuse falsely

To falsely accuse someone of a crime or wrongdoing.

Synonyms

accuse falsely, slander.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
defame

Used when someone is attacking another person's reputation by making false statements. Common in legal discussions or formal complaints.

  • The politician was defamed by his rivals during the campaign
  • The company is suing the newspaper for defaming their CEO
accuse falsely

Appropriate when addressing someone making an untrue accusation against another person. Often used in discussions about justice and fairness.

  • She was accused falsely of stealing the money
  • He spent years in prison because he was accused falsely
slander

Used to describe spoken defamation, where someone speaks falsehoods to harm another's reputation. Commonly appears in legal contexts concerning verbal attacks.

  • She is suing her coworker for slander
  • The rumors he spread about her were considered to be slander

Examples of usage

  • He was defamed by his former business partner.
  • The politician claimed he was being defamed by the opposition party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'defame'

The word 'defame' originated from the Latin word 'diffamare', which means 'to spread evil reports'. The concept of damaging someone's reputation through false statements has been a part of human society for centuries, with defamation laws evolving to protect individuals from such harm.

See also: defamer, fame, famous.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,622 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.