What does libelling mean?
Libelling means writing or publishing a statement that seriously harms another person's reputation. In legal contexts, the term usually refers to a false statement communicated through writing, print, or another published medium and intended, or reasonably likely, to damage the subject's reputation. As a verb, libelling is the present participle of “libel”; as a noun, it denotes the activity of making such statements. The word is strongly condemnatory and is especially associated with law, journalism, and public disputes. It is more precise than the general word “criticism,” because it implies that the statement is false, damaging, and presented as fact or allegation. In less formal use, “libelling” may describe a broader campaign of hostile public accusations. The expression is formal and usually negative, and its frequency in discussion of newspapers, politicians, celebrities, and campaigns makes it especially relevant in disputes over media responsibility and freedom of expression.
To write or publish a false statement that damages someone's reputation.
"He was accused of libelling his former employer in an online article."
This is the present participle of “libel.” In legal usage, publication or dissemination is usually implied.
The act of writing or publishing a false and reputation-damaging statement.
"The court heard a case concerning libel and libelling brought against the publisher."
The noun is usually uncountable; plural forms are uncommon.
Rare; the noun is normally used in the uncountable singular.
"The court treated the two libellings as separate causes of action."
Its ancestor, “libel,” literally meant “little book,” a reminder that written publication has long been central to attacks on reputation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does libelling come from?
“Libelling” was formed in English from “libel,” with the ending “-ing.” “Libel” came through Anglo-French from Latin libellus, a diminutive of liber meaning “book” or “booklet,” and its early English senses referred to written publications. Its later sense developed from defamatory written material to the act of making and publishing statements that injure reputation. The Latin root also produced cognates such as “libretto” and, more remotely, “library.”
Related word forms
How libelling is actually used
The term is formal, strongly negative, and especially common in legal and journalistic contexts. It generally implies publication, although ordinary usage can extend it more broadly to damaging public accusations. British spelling uses two l's, while American spelling usually has one.
Easily confused with libelling
Labelling means attaching a label or description to something, whereas libelling means publishing a false statement that damages someone's reputation.