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defamation

Noun

IPA /ˌdefəˈmeɪʃn/

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Meaning in plain English

Damage to someone's reputation through false statements presented to others.

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Pronunciation

defamation/ˌdefəˈmeɪʃn/

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A false claim about someone is shared
Other people believe the claim
The person's reputation is harmed

Defamation involves false statements that damage a person's reputation.

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The documentary explored how online defamation harmed a small business owner.
The journalism students discussed the difference between criticism and defamation.

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The documentary explored how online ________ harmed a small business owner.

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defamation — Damage to someone's reputation through false statements presented to others.

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Damage to someone's reputation through false statements presented to others.

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Word origin

Through Old French and medieval Latin from Latin diffamatio, related to spreading a harmful report.

Did you know?

Defamation of character is a common phrase referring to harm to someone's reputation.

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