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

Back then, the ADA appeared genuinely committed to defending itself and the editorial integrity of another of its journals, Diabetes, which had been named in a defamation suit two years earlier by a researcher in São Paulo named Mario Saad. — Ivan Oransky, STAT, 31 July 2026

Maddox, who was released, is seeking $250,000 for assault, false arrest, negligence, defamation, and false imprisonment. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 31 July 2026

Emily Moreno and Zashin are the subjects of Miller’s defamation lawsuit, which alleged the defendants disseminated domestic abuse allegations that were then published by national and regional news outlets. — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 30 July 2026

Additionally, the family of a former teammates of Wells have threatened to file defamation suits amid ongoing speculation. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026