libel

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a false and malicious publication printed for the purpose of defaming a living person
noun the written statement of a plaintiff explaining the cause of action (the defamation) and any relief he seeks
verb print slanderous statements against

From Middle English libel, from Old French libelle, from Latin libellus (“petition”, literally “booklet”). Doublet of libelle.

A house can be libeled, you know. — A Case in Camera, Oliver Onions
There she may libel me as much as she pleases. — Memoirs of Napoleon Bonaparte — Complete, Louis Antoine Fauvelet de Bourrienne
That is, he gratifies your envy by libelling your superiors. — Biographia Literaria, Samuel Taylor Coleridge

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