libelous

[ lahy-buh-luhs ]

adjective

1. containing, constituting, or involving a libel; maliciously defamatory.

Other Words From

• libel·ous·ly especially British, libel·lous·ly adverb
• non·libel·ous adjective
• non·libel·ous·ly adverb
• un·libel·lous adjective
• un·libel·lous·ly adverb
• un·libel·ous adjective
• un·libel·ous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of libelous¹

First recorded in 1610–20; libel + -ous

Example Sentences

Other people were encumbered by concerns at the time, possibly about, you know, is that libelous?

From Salon

But what is not a good faith sort of criticism or engagement is making false, libelous accusations about scientists, or comparing them to convicted criminals.

From Salon

The lawsuit alleges the principal and the district violated the California Education Code, which provides strong protections for student journalism and free speech with few exceptions, such as content that is obscene, libelous or slanderous.

From Los Angeles Times

“So where is the U.N. and its aid agencies? How can it be that Israel is libelously held responsible for a situation that is clearly the U.N.’s fault?” he asked.

From Seattle Times

The alliance has denied collecting names without permission and has called Cleveland.com’s coverage of the situation “libelous.”

From Seattle Times