libel
UK: ˈlaɪ.bəl | US: ˈlaɪ.bəl
n. a false written or published statement that damages someone’s reputation
vt. to publish a false statement that harms someone’s reputation
The word libel originates from Latin libellus, meaning "a little book" or "written document." In medieval legal contexts, libellus referred to formal written accusations, which evolved into the modern sense of defamatory statements. The shift from "document" to "false accusation" reflects the historical use of written claims in legal disputes, where malicious intent could tarnish reputations.
The celebrity sued the magazine for libel after it published false claims about her personal life.
In some countries, libel laws are strict to protect individuals from harmful misinformation.
The journalist was accused of libel but proved the accuracy of her reporting.
Spreading libel online can lead to serious legal consequences.
His reputation never recovered from the libel printed in the newspaper.