Libelled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
libelled
[หlษชb.ษld ]
Definition
legal term
Libelled refers to the act of publishing a false statement about someone that damages their reputation, typically in written form. This term is often used in legal contexts when discussing defamation cases. The term 'libel' denotes a specific type of defamation, as opposed to 'slander', which refers to spoken defamation.
Synonyms
defamed, maligned, slandered, vilified.
Examples of usage
- The newspaper libelled the celebrity in its latest article.
- He accused the journalist of libelling him in her report.
- The company filed a lawsuit after being libelled in a blog post.
- She was libelled by a former friend, leading to legal action.
- They were libelled in an online forum, prompting a criminal investigation.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In many countries, libel laws require that the statement be false, published, and damaging to the personโs reputation.
- Public figures face a higher burden of proof in libel cases, needing to show not just falsity but actual malice in the statement.
- Defending against a libel claim often involves proving that the statement was true or that it was an opinion rather than a fact.
Pop Culture
- Libel cases have been the subject of numerous famous trials and books, often highlighting the tension between free speech and reputational rights.
- Movies and TV shows sometimes portray libel in sensational court scenes, dramatizing the fight for justice over false claims.
- High-profile celebrities often file libel suits against tabloids, emphasizing the significant impact of written statements on public figures.
Impact on Society
- The existence of libel laws aims to protect individuals from false accusations that could lead to social ostracism or professional harm.
- The rise of social media has complicated libel, as false statements can spread quickly, leading to online harassment and reputation damage.
- Educational institutions cover libel in media ethics and journalism courses, teaching the importance of truth in reporting.
Psychology
- False statements can lead to significant emotional distress for victims, including anxiety and fear of public perception.
- Individuals who are libelled often experience a feeling of loss of control over their own narratives and identities.
- The process of addressing libel, whether through legal channels or public statements, can be a long and psychologically taxing journey.
Origin of 'libelled'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'libel' comes from the Latin word 'libellus,' meaning 'little book' or 'written declaration,' indicating a written statement.
- Initially used in legal contexts, 'libel' was linked to writings that defamed someone's character as early as the 17th century.
- The word evolved in English during the 14th century, originally referencing any written document before it was specifically related to harmful statements.
The term 'libelled' comes from the noun 'libel', which is derived from the Latin word 'libellus', meaning 'a little book or document'. The earliest usages can be traced back to the late Middle English period, indicating a written statement that could cause harm to someone's reputation. Over time, as the legal system developed, the definition became more formalized, particularly in the context of defamation law. By the 18th century, libel laws began to take shape in various jurisdictions, recognizing that written statements could have damaging effects and thus warrant legal ramifications. This history reflects the evolution of the understanding of written words and their power in society.