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

Wilson is being sued for defamation by Charlotte MacInnes, The Deb‘s lead actress. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 8 May 2026

Smartmatic’s defamation lawsuit against Fox News stems from voter fraud allegations related to the 2020 election that the network spread on air. —David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 7 May 2026

Season 2, which will focus on an explosive defamation case, is about to go into production. —K.j. Yossman, Variety, 7 May 2026

In April, Liman also dismissed most of Lively’s claims against Baldoni, including harassment, defamation and conspiracy. —Rebecca Keegan, NBC news, 7 May 2026