What does slanderously mean?
Slanderously is an adverb meaning in a false and damaging way, especially by making untrue accusations that could harm someone’s reputation. It is commonly used to characterize statements, allegations, portrayals, or accusations that are not merely controversial or rude but actively misleading and malicious. For example, a report may describe a politician as having been “slanderously accused” if it suggests that the accusation lacked evidence or was deliberately false. The word carries a strongly accusatory and formal tone, so it is more appropriate in legal, journalistic, political, or argumentative writing than in casual conversation. Its related adjective, slanderous, is commonly used to describe words, claims, or actions intended to damage someone’s good name. Slanderously emphasizes both the falsity and the damaging character of the conduct.
adverbIn a slanderous manner; by making false and damaging statements about someone.
- In a manner characterized by false, damaging accusations against someone.
"The witness claimed that she had been slanderously accused of wrongdoing."
"The newspaper was accused of slanderously implying that the mayor had accepted a bribe."
"She argued that the witness had deliberately and slanderously distorted his remarks."
Slanderously describes words that go beyond mere criticism by falsely attacking someone’s character or reputation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slanderously come from?
The adverb was formed in English by adding the suffix “-ly” to the adjective “slanderous.” “Slanderous” in turn derives from “slander,” an English word for a false statement made maliciously and with the intention of damaging another person’s reputation. The adverb therefore preserves the sense of acting in a manner characterized by slander.
Related word forms
How slanderously is actually used
This is a formal and strongly negative adverb. It is usually used in legal, journalistic, or argumentative contexts rather than everyday conversation.