calumny

American  

[kal-uhm-nee] / ˈkæl əm ni /

noun

PLURAL

calumnies

1. a false and malicious statement designed to injure the reputation of someone or something.

   The speech was considered a calumny of the administration.

2. the act of uttering calumnies; slander; defamation.

   Synonyms:

   derogation, vilification

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calumny British  

/ ˈkæləmnɪ /

noun

1. the malicious utterance of false charges or misrepresentation; slander; defamation

2. such a false charge or misrepresentation

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Commonly Confused

See slander.

Etymology

Origin of calumny

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin calumnia, equivalent to calumn-, perhaps originally a participle of calvī “to deceive” + -ia -y ³ )

Example Sentences

Eastman portrays himself as a battling patriot who has been subjected to “false narratives and calumnies.”

From Los Angeles Times

But for Sakoda and others, his initial reaction — which included accusing the survivors of “calumny,” or slander — revealed what they believe is his true allegiance — protecting the church’s hierarchy.

From Los Angeles Times

Piemme said the book would expose the “blatant calumnies” and “dark maneuvers” that sullied Benedict’s reputation, but also celebrate his historic papacy and life.

From Seattle Times

KASSEL, Germany — It began with a calumny, it ends with a crack-up.

From New York Times

Yes, the presidency was a thankless job, “a most unpleasant seat, full of thorns, briars, thistles, murmuring, fault-finding, calumny, obloquy.”

From Literature