Slander Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Law

• In legal terms, slander is considered a form of defamation that is spoken rather than written.
• Defamation laws vary by country, but they generally require proof that the statement caused harm.
• In many jurisdictions, slander is harder to prove than libel (written defamation) because it relies on a spoken act.

Culture

• Many cultures have traditional sayings that caution against gossip and slander, emphasizing the value of honesty.
• Literature often portrays characters who spread slander as villains, reinforcing its negative connotations.
• In social media, slander can spread quickly, leading to faster reputational damage than traditional word-of-mouth.

Psychology

• Spreading slander can stem from jealousy or a desire for power, impacting the slanderer’s mental health as well.
• Listening to slanderous remarks may influence people's perceptions and relationships, showcasing social dynamics.
• Research shows that, although damaging, slander can sometimes temporarily boost the speaker's self-esteem.

Historical Examples

• In ancient Rome, political leaders often used slander as a weapon against rivals to sway public opinion.
• Notable historical figures, including Shakespeare, explored themes of slander in plays like 'Othello' and 'Julius Caesar'.
• In modern history, several court cases have centered on slander, highlighting its legal implications and societal impact.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'slandare', meaning to 'discredit' or 'slur'.
• In Middle English, it was spelled 'slandre' and referred to insults or false accusations.
• Old French also contributed with 'esclandre', which meant a public disgrace or scandal.

The word 'slander' originated from the Old French 'esclandre', which in turn came from the Latin 'scandalum', meaning 'stumbling block' or 'offense'. The concept of slander has been present in legal systems for centuries, with regulations and penalties established to protect individuals from false and damaging statements.

See also: slanderer, slanderous.

At position #13,596, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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