libel

[ˈlaɪbəl]

libel Definition

• 1. a published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation
• 2. the 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

• commit libel

  to publish a false statement that damages someone's reputation

  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.

• libel law

  the body of law that deals with libel and slander

  Example

  The libel law in this country is very strict.

Origins of libel

from Old French 'libelle', meaning 'little book'

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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.