Libeller Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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libeller
[lɪˈbɛlər ]
Definition
legal term
A libeller is an individual who engages in the act of libel, which refers to the publication of false statements that damage a person's reputation. This usually occurs in written form, where defamation is presented as factual news or opinion. The act of libel is considered a serious offense under defamation laws and can lead to legal action against the libeller. Often, a libeller may spread malicious or harmful allegations against someone, which can unfairly affect their social and professional life.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The journalist was sued for being a libeller.
- He was accused of being a libeller after publishing false information.
- The court found her to be a libeller for her blog posts.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Legal Aspects
- Libel is considered a form of defamation, which also includes spoken lies known as slander.
- To win a libel case, the victim must prove that the statements were false and damaging, and not merely offensive.
- Public figures have a higher burden of proof in libel cases, needing to show the libeller acted with 'actual malice.'
Cultural Impact
- The rise of social media has changed the landscape of libel, with many incidents occurring online and affecting personal and professional reputations.
- Famous cases of libel have influenced public opinion and sometimes even lead to legal reforms regarding freedom of speech.
- Libelous statements can spark significant public backlash and social movements to protect the reputations of those harmed.
Literature
- In novels, characters often serve as libellers to create conflict, illustrating moral dilemmas related to truth and deception.
- Classic literary works like 'The Scarlet Letter' explore themes of shame and reputation, closely linked to libelous accusations.
- Drama and satire often use libel as a plot device to critique society, showing the dangers of spreading false narratives.
Psychology
- People may engage in libelling due to envy or resentment, illustrating complex human emotions around status and reputation.
- The psychological effects of being libelled can include anxiety, depression, and damaged social relationships for the victim.
- Libelling someone can be a form of projection, where individuals shift their insecurities onto others through false accusations.
Origin of 'libeller'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the word 'libel,' which refers to a false statement that damages a reputation, with roots in the Latin word 'libellus' meaning 'little book.'
- Original legal concepts of libel emerged in English law during the early 16th century, focusing on printed statements.
- In the modern context, a 'libeller' can be anyone who writes or disseminates harmful false information, especially in media.
The term 'libeller' originates from the word 'libel', which derives from the Latin 'libellus', meaning 'a little book or document'. The use of the term evolved in Middle English as it began to encompass not just the written form but also the broader implications of defamation. As laws regarding defamation and libel began to formalize in the 17th century, the role of the libeller became a significant legal concept, particularly in English common law. Over time, with the influence of print media and later digital platforms, the notion of libel and consequently the libeller adapted, leading to contemporary discussions about freedom of speech and the responsibilities that come with publishing statements about individuals.