Defame – Meaning, Definition, Synonyms and Antonyms
Defame is a verb that means harming someone’s reputation by spreading false or damaging information.
Meaning:
When you defame someone, you damage their reputation by making damaging claims about them. These claims may be spread as spoken statements (often called slander) or as written or published statements (often called libel).
Definition:
Defamation can lead to legal consequences when the information is presented as a damaging assertion and is shown to be untrue. In practice, defamation isn’t limited to individuals; it can also affect businesses, organizations, and public figures. With today’s fast-moving online environment, rumors and misleading posts can spread quickly, increasing the risk of reputational damage.
If you are writing or reporting, it helps to distinguish between personal opinion and statements of fact. Criticizing someone’s actions is different from publishing false allegations that could harm their standing.
Example Sentences:
- The journalist was sued for attempting to Defame the actor with unverifiable claims.
- Spreading false rumors can unfairly Defame a person’s reputation.
- He tried to Defame his rival by making up lies about him during the interview.
- The company took legal action against posts that Defamed its brand and leadership.
- On social media, a single misleading headline can Defame someone before facts are checked.
Defame Synonyms:
Defame Antonyms:
- Praise
- Commend
- Honor
- Glorify
- Compliment
- Rehabilitate
- Support
- Respect
- Vindicate
Explore more Negative words that start with D to keep expanding your vocabulary.
