Synonyms of name-calling

name-calling

noun

ˈnām-ˌkȯ-liŋ 

as in libel

the use of personal attacks or insults in order to undermine an opponent

the campaign quickly degenerated into name-calling rather than an intelligent discussion of the issues

Synonyms & Similar Words

• libel
• censure
• abuse
• mudslinging
• smearing
• defamation
• slander
• vilification
• disparagement
• vituperation
• invective
• character assassination
• denunciation
• detraction
• innuendo
• belittlement
• maligning
• revilement
• aspersion

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of name-calling

Since then, it’s shifted to tribal politics, settling for name-calling and ad hominem attacks. — Jeff Horseman, Oc Register, 5 May 2026

Cofer noted that the evening was a forum, rather than a debate and that name-calling wasn’t allowed. — Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 10 Apr. 2026

In the main saloon, Ellie asks for João’s advice on how to handle Ben’s name-calling. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 24 Mar. 2026

Among my Jewish friends and family, these efforts to intimidate and alienate Jews, to exclude them from civil society and from public life, and to close down private Jewish spaces are discussed with far more concern and frequency than the regular reports of graffiti and name-calling. — Jesse Brown, The Atlantic, 24 Mar. 2026