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calumny
This term describes a deliberate and malicious attempt to destroy a person's standing through lies. It carries a heavy, formal weight and implies a calculated intent to harm, distinguishing it from simple gossip or accidental misinformation. It is most frequently encountered in legal, political, or historical contexts where the stakes of reputation are high.
While often used as an uncountable noun to describe the general practice of slander, the word can be pluralized as calumnies when referring to specific, individual false statements or a series of distinct accusations.
Meanings
Examples
He spent years trying to clear his name after the calumny of his rivals.
I cannot believe they would resort to such vile calumny just to win the contract.
The witness was accused of spreading calumny to mislead the jury.
She suffered in silence as the calumny grew more pervasive in the village.
Is this a legitimate accusation or merely a piece of political calumny?
The nobility used calumny as a weapon to dismantle the reputation of the rising merchant.
I will not let this calumny stand unchallenged.
The court ruled that the statements were not factual but were intended as calumny.
Such blatant calumny is unacceptable in a professional environment.