Defamer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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defamer

[dɪˈfeɪmər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

person

A person who damages the reputation of another by making false and harmful statements about them.

Synonyms

calumniator, libeler, slanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
defamer	Used when someone is making statements that damage another person's reputation, generally in any medium. She sued the defamer for spreading lies about her business practices. The defamer's comments caused a lot of harm to his public image.
slanderer	Used when someone speaks false statements, rather than writing, to damage another person's reputation. The rumors spread by the slanderer caused significant distress. She decided to confront the slanderer about the lies being told.
libeler	Specifically used when someone publishes false statements in written form that damage another person's reputation. The journalist was labeled a libeler for printing false stories. He took the libeler to court for the defamatory article.
calumniator	Used in a formal or legal setting to describe someone who spreads false statements about others, typically with the intention of harming their reputation. The court found the calumniator guilty of spreading malicious falsehoods. Political opponents often become calumniators during heated campaigns.

Examples of usage

The defamer spread vicious lies about his coworker to get him fired.
She was sued for being a defamer after her false accusations ruined his career.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

internet

An individual or group that spreads false information online to harm someone's reputation.

Synonyms

cyberbully, internet libeler, online slanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
defamer	Used to describe someone who spreads false and damaging statements about others, typically in a general context, not necessarily online. The journalist was sued for being a defamer after publishing incorrect information. As a defamer, he destroyed many reputations with his lies.
cyberbully	Refers specifically to someone who uses the internet to bully, harass, or intimidate others, often involving repeated actions targeting the same person. The school implemented strict rules to combat cyberbullying. She became a victim of a cyberbully who kept sending her threatening messages.
online slanderer	Specifically denotes someone who makes damaging, false spoken statements via the internet. Typically perceived negatively. The reputation of the artist was tarnished by an online slanderer. After being targeted by an online slanderer, she found it difficult to regain her credibility.
internet libeler	Describes a person who publishes defamatory statements about someone else on the internet. This term is more formal and legalistic. The CEO took action against the internet libeler who posted false claims on social media. Internet libelers can face serious legal consequences for their actions.

Examples of usage

The defamer created fake social media accounts to post defamatory content about the celebrity.
Online platforms have been cracking down on defamers to prevent cyberbullying.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Law

Defamation can be categorized into two types: slander (spoken) and libel (written).
In many jurisdictions, defamation cases require proof of falsehood and damage to reputation.
Some legal systems offer defenses against defamation, such as truth and public interest.

Pop Culture

Defamation cases are often a theme in movies and shows, highlighting conflicts over reputation.
Famous figures, like celebrities and politicians, commonly face defamation as a means of smear campaigns.
Courtroom dramas often include defamation as a plot point, showcasing the battle for truth.

Psychology

People may defame others as a defense mechanism to avoid scrutiny of their own flaws.
Social dynamics can play a role; individuals might defame to enhance their own social standing.
Witnessing or being a victim of defamation can lead to anxiety and trust issues in personal relationships.

History

Throughout history, political figures have been targets of defamation to manipulate public opinion.
During the Renaissance, pamphlets were printed to defame opponents in political and religious disputes.
The Salem witch trials saw accusations based on defamation leading to serious repercussions for many individuals.

Origin of 'defamer'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'diffamare', which means 'to slander'.
It first appeared in English in the late 16th century, linked to accusations that damaged people's names.
The roots signify spreading rumors or false information to tarnish someone’s reputation.

The word 'defamer' originated from the Middle English word 'defamen', which came from the Old French 'defamer' and Latin 'diffamare', meaning 'to spread evil reports about', 'to slander'. The concept of defamation has been a part of legal systems for centuries, with laws protecting individuals from false and harmful statements that can damage their reputation.