English Dictionary
Definition of “slander”
slander (ˈslɑːndə
)
Definitions
noun
- law
- defamation in some transient form, as by spoken words, gestures, etc
- a slanderous statement, etc
- any false or defamatory words spoken about a person; calumny
verb
- to utter or circulate slander (about)
Alternative Forms
ˈslanderer noun ˈslanderous adjective ˈslanderously adverb ˈslanderousness noun Word Origin
C13: via Anglo-French from Old French escandle, from Late Latin scandalum a cause of offence; see scandal
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
=
defamation,
smear,
libel,
scandal,
misrepresentation,
calumny,
backbiting,
muckraking,
obloquy,
aspersion,
detraction,
=
defame,
smear,
libel,
slur,
malign,
detract,
disparage,
decry,
vilify,
traduce,
backbite,
blacken (someone's) name
calumniate,
muckrake,
Quotations
"Throw enough dirt and some will stick"
"Give a dog a bad name and hang him"
Usage examples
You really must be careful about the way you sling slander about, Kenworthy.
Hilton, John Buxton, Passion in the Peak (1985)The shop owners insisted the signed photos were genuine, and filed proceedings accusing Posh of slander.
Spiked (2003)"We're talking about a disgraceful political slander ," Sharon said.
Toronto Sun (2003)Mr Maccaba, 45, a father of six, had formed a `close emotional attachment" with Mrs Attar, a slander jury was told.
Sun, News of the World (2004)2 No member may slander or abuse any other member or guest.
Turner, Stuart, The Public Speaker`s Companion (1988)
