defamation
/ˌdɛfəˈmeɪʃ(ə)n
/noun [mass noun]
The action of damaging the good reputation of someone; slander or libel: she sued him for defamation...
- If the contents of the publication are untrue the law of defamation provides prohibition.
- No defamation occurs until the defamatory matter is communicated to a third party.
- Defendants have counterclaimed for defamation and abuse of process.
Synonyms
libel, slander, character assassination, defamation of character, calumny, vilification, traducement, obloquy, scandal, scandalmongering, malicious gossip, tittle-tattle, backbiting, aspersions, muckraking, abuse, malediction;
disparagement, denigration, detraction, derogation, opprobrium, censure, criticism;
smear, slur, lie, false report, smear campaign, rumour, insult
informal mud-slinging, slagging-off, knocking, bitching
North American informal bad-mouthing
archaic contumely