Synonyms of defamation

defamation

noun

ˌde-fə-ˈmā-shən 

as in libel

the making of false statements that damage another's reputation

accused the newspaper columnist of defamation of character

Synonyms & Similar Words

• libel
• defaming
• libeling
• slander
• criticism
• smearing
• calumny
• vilification
• abuse
• attack
• contempt
• censure
• blackening
• character assassination
• maligning
• malice
• calumniation
• traducing
• smear
• vilifying
• innuendo
• aspersing
• maliciousness
• mud
• aspersion
• vituperation
• detraction
• backbiting
• invective
• denunciation
• disdain
• spite
• disparagement
• denigration
• spitefulness
• scorn
• hatefulness
• venom
• hatchet job
• malignancy
• meanness
• malevolence
• belittlement
• malignity
• muck
• viciousness
• spleen
• nastiness
• despite
• cattiness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• praise
• respect
• applause
• esteem
• acclaim
• commendation
• honor
• flattery
• worship
• accolade
• reverence
• adoration
• veneration
• adulation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of defamation

LaCroix has accused Borgelin and his wife Dorothy of libel, slander and defamation for falsely calling her a Republican. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 27 Oct. 2026

In early 2023, Whitfield sued the district for defamation, alleging Nakamura violated the settlement agreement. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Oct. 2026

Hajdini has also countersued for defamation over Rana’s claims. — Morgan Chittum, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2026

The classmate, Joleene Altum, sued Griffin for emotional distress and invasion of privacy, and Griffin countersued for defamation in a bitter, ongoing legal battle. — Ben Smith, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2026