Mudslinger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐๏ธ
mudslinger
[หmษdหsliลษ ]
Definition
political context
A mudslinger is a person who tries to ruin someone else's reputation, often through the use of malicious or slanderous comments. This term is commonly used in political campaigns where opponents attempt to discredit each other by spreading negative information.
Synonyms
calumniator, defamer, libeler, slanderer.
Examples of usage
- The election was full of mudslinging between the candidates.
- She accused her rival of being a mudslinger who would stop at nothing to win.
- The debates turned ugly with mudslinging becoming the main focus.
Translations
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Origin of 'mudslinger'
The term โmudslingerโ originates from the practice of throwing mud at someone or something in order to damage its reputation, particularly in political arenas. The word became popular in the United States in the early 20th century, especially during contentious political campaigns where candidates would employ aggressive tactics. The metaphorical use of 'mud' reflects the idea of making something dirty or unclean in order to detract from its value or image. This concept echoes back to earlier language that associated the act of slinging mud with dishonesty and negative manipulation. The practice has historical roots in various forms of political discourse, where personal attacks and scandal were used as tools for discrediting opponents.