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

Trump’s 2020 election lies were promoted on several Fox News shows, including Bartiromo’s, and led to numerous defamation lawsuits. — Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2026

Over the past months, Patrick Clancy and his family have been subjected to a relentless, escalating and destructive defamation campaign. — Mike Toole, CBS News, 8 Sep. 2026

The statements made about Skains in that letter were false and constituted defamation for which she should be compensated, the jury decided Friday. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Sep. 2026

Fox faces a similar ongoing defamation lawsuit with Smartmatic USA, in which Bartiromo is also a defendant. — Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 4 Sep. 2026