Words / C2

KAL-uh-mnee/ˈkæləmni/

Calumny is a false, damaging statement: spread calumny, a calumny against her name. Slander is spoken defamation; libel is written. Calumny is the formal, slightly old-fashioned umbrella. Do not use it for a fair, harsh review.

Meaning

A false, damaging statement; slander (formal).

Examples

• “She sued over the calumny in the article.”
• “He spent years fighting calumny on social media.”
• “The memoir repeats a calumny that was later withdrawn.”

Good to know

a calumny / spread calumny (formal). Spoken: slander. Written: libel.

Near in meaning

slander

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