libel Definition
- 1a published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation
- 2the act of publishing such a statement
Using libel: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "libel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He sued the newspaper for libel.
Example
The article was full of lies and libelous statements.
Example
The actress won a libel case against the magazine that printed false information about her.
libel Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for libel
- slander
- defamation
- smear
- character assassination
- false accusation
Phrases with libel
Example
If you commit libel, you can be sued for damages.
libel suit
a legal action taken against someone who has published a libelous statement
Example
The politician filed a libel suit against the newspaper that printed false information about him.
Example
The libel law in this country is very strict.
Origins of libel
from Old French 'libelle', meaning 'little book'
Summary: libel in Brief
'Libel' [ˈlaɪbəl] refers to a published false statement that harms someone's reputation or the act of publishing such a statement. It is often used in legal contexts, as in 'He sued the newspaper for libel,' and can result in a libel suit. The term 'libel law' refers to the body of law that deals with libel and slander.