libel (C1)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈlaɪbəl/
Definition
A published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation; a defamatory article or book.
Examples
The celebrity threatened to sue the tabloid for libel.
It is difficult to prove libel in court if the statements were true.
The article was a clear case of libel, containing numerous falsehoods.
How to Use libel
- libel against (prepositional phrase)
- A false and damaging statement made about someone. — "The report contained serious libel against the company's CEO."
- sue for libel (collocation)
- To take legal action against someone for publishing a damaging false statement. — "He threatened to sue for libel if the false story was not retracted."
Synonyms of libel
Words with a similar meaning to libel:
Antonyms of libel
Words with the opposite meaning to libel:
Browse the full Anaversity dictionary