Definition of 'calumny'

Word Frequency

calumny

(kæləmni )

Word forms: plural calumnies

variable noun

Calumny or a calumny is an untrue statement made about someone in order to reduce other people's respect and admiration for them.

[formal]

He was the victim of calumny.

Synonyms: slander, abuse, insult, smear More Synonyms of calumny

Word Frequency

calumny in British

(ˈkæləmnɪ )

noun plural -nies

the malicious utterance of false charges or misrepresentation; slander; defamation

such a false charge or misrepresentation

Word origin of 'calumny'

C15: from Latin calumnia deception, slander

Word Frequency

calumny in American

(ˈkæləmni ; kalˈəmnē)

nounWord forms: plural ˈcalumnies

a false and malicious statement meant to hurt someone's reputation

the uttering of such a statement; slander

Word origin of 'calumny'

Fr calomnie < L calumnia, trickery, slander < IE base *kēl-, *kol-, to deceive, confuse > OE hol, slander

Example sentences containing 'calumny'

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This was calumny as they both knew that Dalziel's ability to trip lightly on the dance floor was indeed fantastic. Anthony Masters CASCADES - THE DAY OF THE DEAD (2001)

`Anyone, anyone, accused of calumny against the state is automatically sentenced to five years in jail. Collins, Larry BLACK EAGLES (2001)

Trends of 'calumny'

Used Occasionally. calumny is one of the 30000 most commonly used words in the Collins dictionary

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Nearby words of 'calumny'

Source

Definition of calumny from the Collins English Dictionary

Sentences and clauses

A clause is a group of words which contains a verb. The verb in a clause can be finite Use this pan for the pasta. He missed the turnoff. or non-finite. To cook pasta, always use a large pan....