Defame Meaning and Definition
Defame
Pronunciation
/dəˈfeɪm/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To speak or write something that is damaging to someone’s reputation or character.
Examples
- The politician’s rival tried to defame him by spreading false rumors.
- The blogger’s comments were defamatory and caused harm to the company’s reputation.
Synonyms
- Libel
- Smear
Antonyms
- Praise
- Laud
Etymology
The word “defame” comes from the Latin “defamare,” meaning “to bring harm” or “to ruin.”
Usage Notes
Defame is typically used in the context of spoken or written statements that are intended to harm someone’s reputation.
Cultural References
In literature, the concept of defamation is often explored in works such as George Orwell’s “1984” and Arthur Miller’s “The Crucible.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To throw mud
- To besmirch
Related Words or Phrases
Slander, libel, and harassment are all related to the concept of defaming someone.
Collocations
Defame is often used in combination with words like “false,” “malicious,” and “reckless” to emphasize the harmful nature of the statement.
Frequency of Use
The word “defame” is relatively rare in everyday conversation, but it is often used in legal and journalistic contexts.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings of the word “defame” include “defamee,” “defamme,” and “defameed.”