calumny

[ kal-uhm-nee ]

noun

, plural cal·um·nies.

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

calumny

/ ˈkæləmnɪ /

noun

1. the malicious utterance of false charges or misrepresentation; slander; defamation
2. such a false charge or misrepresentation

Confusables Note

See slander.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calumny¹

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 )

Word History and Origins

Origin of calumny¹

C15: from Latin calumnia deception, slander

Example Sentences

At a dinner celebrating her Uncle Luca’s improper ascension, she strides into the room, seats herself at the other end of the table, and interrupts his self-aggrandizing speech to address the family members who aided her father’s calumny.

From Salon

Sen. JD Vance, a Republican from Ohio and Trump's vice presidential nominee, made the rounds of the Sunday shows and doubled down on the calumny.

From Salon

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

Months later, the Vatican accuses Vigano of calumny.

From Reuters

There is an essential strangeness to the “Democrat party” calumny.

From Slate