Libeler Meaning: Definition and Examples

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libeler

[ˈlaɪbələr ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

legal term

A person who has defamed someone in writing or speech.

Synonyms

character assassin, defamer, slanderer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
libeler	Used to describe someone who publishes a written false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation. The journalist was accused of being a libeler after publishing false information about the CEO.
defamer	Used more generally for someone who damages the good reputation of another through false statements, either written or spoken. The defamer was sued for spreading lies about the actress on social media.
slanderer	Used to describe someone who makes false spoken statements that are damaging to a person's reputation. He was labeled a slanderer after making false claims about his colleague in public.
character assassin	Used when referring to someone who maligns or defames another person specifically to damage their reputation, often in a methodical and sustained way. He was known as a character assassin, constantly spreading rumors to ruin his rivals' reputations.

Examples of usage

He was sued for defamation as the libeler of the famous actress.
The libeler was found guilty of spreading false information.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

legal term

To defame someone by publishing a false statement.

Synonyms

defame, slander, smear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
libeler	Typically used in legal or formal contexts to describe someone who publishes false and damaging statements about another person in written form. The journalist was labeled as a libeler after publishing false accusations against the politician
defame	Used in both formal and informal situations to describe making false and harmful statements about someone, regardless of the medium. Usually general in nature. She sued him for trying to defame her character through malicious gossip
slander	Used in both legal and informal contexts to describe false verbal statements that harm someone's reputation. This term is specific to spoken words. He was accused of slander after spreading false rumors about his colleague at the office
smear	Often used in informal contexts to describe an attempt to harm someone's reputation, usually through a campaign of malicious rumors or false statements. It implies deliberate and often malicious intent. The politician's opponents launched a smear campaign to ruin his reputation before the election

Examples of usage

He tried to libel his political opponent by spreading rumors.
She was accused of libeling her former employer in the newspaper.

Interesting Facts

Legal History

Libel laws in the United States and many countries evolved from English common law, aiming to protect individuals from false written accusations.
The landmark case New York Times Co. v. Sullivan in 1964 established that public figures must prove 'actual malice' to win a libel case.

Pop Culture

Libel cases often feature in courtroom dramas and movies, showcasing the clash between journalism and individual rights.
Many celebrities engage in libel suits when false narratives are published about them, leading to public appetite for scandal.

Psychology

The spread of libel often stems from issues like jealousy or misunderstanding, reflecting deeper social dynamics.
Victims of libel can experience significant emotional distress, affecting their mental health and public perception.

Media Ethics

The rise of social media has intensified discussions about libel, as misinformation spreads rapidly online.
Journalistic ethics heavily emphasize the importance of fact-checking to avoid libeling individuals inadvertently.

Origin of 'libeler'

Main points about word origin

The term 'libeler' originates from the word 'libel', which derives from the Latin word 'libellus', meaning 'little book' or 'pamphlet'.
Historically, libel referred to written statements that defamed someone's character, especially those printed in newspapers or pamphlets.

The word 'libeler' comes from the noun 'libel', which originated in Middle English from the Old French 'libelle', meaning 'written declaration'. The legal concept of libel has been used for centuries to protect individuals from false and damaging statements.