Definition of libel
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: a written statement in which a plaintiff in certain courts sets forth the cause of action or the relief sought
2a
: a written or oral defamatory statement or representation that conveys an unjustly unfavorable impression
b(1)
: a statement or representation published without just cause and tending to expose another to public contempt
(2)
: defamation of a person by written or representational means
(3)
: the publication of blasphemous, treasonable, seditious, or obscene writings or pictures
(4)
: the act, tort, or crime of publishing such a libel
libel
verbDefinition of libel (Entry 2 of 2)
: to make libelous statements
: to make or publish a libel against (see libel entry 1)
Test Your Vocabulary
Which Word Does Not Belong?
-
- Which of these words does not mean "nonsense"?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share libel
Time Traveler for libel
The first known use of libel was in the 14th century
See more words from the same century