Vilify: meaning, definitions and examples

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vilify

[ ˈvɪlɪfaɪ ]

^{Context #1}

public opinion

To speak or write about someone in a way that makes them seem deserving of blame or disapproval.

Synonyms

defame, denigrate, slander

Examples of usage

He was vilified in the press for his controversial remarks.
She was vilified online for her political views.

^{Context #2}

historical context

To make malicious statements about someone with the intent to damage their reputation.

Synonyms

besmirch, malign, smear

Examples of usage

The political opponents vilified each other during the election campaign.

Translations

Translations of the word "vilify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vilipendiar

🇮🇳 बदनाम करना

🇩🇪 verleumden

🇮🇩 mencemarkan

🇺🇦 зневажати

🇵🇱 oczerniać

🇯🇵 中傷する

🇫🇷 vilipender

🇪🇸 vilipendiar

🇹🇷 kötülemek

🇰🇷 비방하다

🇸🇦 يشوه السمعة

🇨🇿 hanobit

🇸🇰 hanobiť

🇨🇳 诋毁

🇸🇮 očrniti

🇮🇸 rægja

🇰🇿 жала жабу

🇬🇪 შეურაცხყოფა

🇦🇿 pisləmək

🇲🇽 vilipendiar

Word origin

The word 'vilify' comes from the Latin word 'vilis' meaning 'cheap' or 'worthless'. Over time, it evolved to mean speaking ill of someone or defaming their character.