libel
LYE-bul
/ˈlaɪbəl/
A published or written false statement that damages a person's or organization's reputation.
Specifically refers to written, printed, or broadcast defamation, whereas 'slander' refers to spoken defamation.
The story behind the word. In Roman law, a 'libellus' was a small written petition or legal booklet. Over time, in English common law, publishing written claims that smeared someone came to be called a 'libelous booklet,' eventually shortened to 'libel'.
Word relationships
- defamation: 'Defamation' is the umbrella legal term covering both written (libel) and spoken (slander) false statements.
- slander: 'Slander' applies exclusively to spoken false statements, whereas 'libel' applies to permanent written/published statements.
- vindication: Vindication establishes truth and restores honor.
- praise: Praise builds reputation positively.
Commonly confused with
- slander: Libel is written/published defamation; slander is spoken defamation.
Word family
- libelous (adjective): Containing or constituting a false written statement harmful to reputation.
Collocations
- libel lawsuit
- sue for libel
- libel action
- gross libel
Example sentences
- "The politician filed a libel lawsuit against the tabloid after it printed unfounded allegations about his financial affairs." Media law
- "Publishers employ legal teams to vet investigative stories thoroughly in order to prevent costly libel actions." Editorial policy
Memory hook
LIBEL = Lies in print that Liable to ruin a reputation. Libel is written lies that damage lives.
When not to use
Do not use for spoken insults (use 'slander' or 'defamation').
Fun facts
- In English law historically, truth was not always a defense against libel; the phrase 'the greater the truth, the greater the libel' existed because truthful exposures caused greater public disturbance!
Related words
Also appears in
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