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Defamed: meaning, definitions and examples

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defamed

 

[dɪˈfeɪmd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To defame someone means to harm their reputation by making false statements about them. This can occur through spoken words (slander) or written statements (libel). Defamation is often considered a serious offense in civil law, and victims may seek damages in court. It is crucial to prove that the statements made were not only false but also damaging to the individual's reputation. Additionally, the act of defaming someone often involves malicious intent.

Synonyms

denigrate, disparage, libel, slander.

Examples of usage

  • The journalist was sued for defaming the celebrity in an article.
  • He claimed that the rumors spread about him were attempts to defame his character.
  • Defaming someone publicly can lead to serious legal consequences.

Interesting Facts

Legal Perspectives

  • In law, defamation is split into two categories: slander (spoken) and libel (written).
  • For a statement to be considered defamation, it typically must be presented as a fact, not an opinion.
  • Defamed individuals can often seek legal action to clear their name and potentially receive damages.

Cultural Impact

  • Defamation cases can lead to important debates about free speech and how far one can go in expressing opinions.
  • Public figures, including celebrities and politicians, often face defamation due to their high visibility and the scrutiny they receive.
  • Social media has amplified the speed and reach of defamation, making online statements potentially damaging in real-time.

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, many influential figures have been defamed to undermine their authority or reputation, sometimes leading to public outrage.
  • The concept of defamation traces back to ancient Rome, where damage to one's reputation was also regarded seriously.
  • In medieval times, accusations of defamation could lead to duels or violent confrontations.

Psychological Effects

  • Being defamed can lead to significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and loss of self-esteem.
  • Victims of defamation often experience public shaming, which can cause long-term social and personal repercussions.
  • The fear of being defamed can lead individuals to be cautious about their public image and easy to provoke.

Media Representation

  • Many movies and books explore themes of defamation, highlighting the struggle between truth and reputation.
  • Defamation is often dramatized in courtroom scenes, showcasing the conflict between freedom of expression and the right to a reputation.
  • Notable cases of defamation have led to media scandals, shaping public opinions and discussions on ethics in journalism.

Translations

Translations of the word "defamed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 difamado

🇮🇳 बदनाम

🇩🇪 verleumdet

🇮🇩 difamasi

🇺🇦 підданий наклепу

🇵🇱 poniżony

🇯🇵 中傷された

🇫🇷 diffamé

🇪🇸 difamado

🇹🇷 karalanmış

🇰🇷 비방당한

🇸🇦 مُشَوَّه

🇨🇿 pomluvený

🇸🇰 pomlčený

🇨🇳 诽谤的

🇸🇮 obrekovan

🇮🇸 dýrmatur

🇰🇿 жала жамалған

🇬🇪 შავდება

🇦🇿 təhqir olunmuş

🇲🇽 difamado

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,888 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.