Langimage
English

slander

|slan-der|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈslændər/

🇬🇧

/ˈslɑːndə/

false damaging statement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'slander' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'esclandre,' where 'esclandre' meant 'scandal.'

Historical Evolution

'esclandre' transformed into the Middle English word 'sclaundre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'slander.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'scandal or disgrace,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'false spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the action or crime of making a false spoken statement damaging to a person's reputation.

He was accused of slander after spreading false rumors about his colleague.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to make false and damaging statements about someone.

She was sued for slandering her neighbor.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41