What does slander mean?
Slander names a false statement that unjustifiably harms another person's reputation, particularly when it is spoken. In everyday use, the word often suggests that the statement was malicious, unsupported, and intended to damage someone rather than to express a legitimate criticism or informed opinion. As a verb, slander means to make such a statement. The distinction between slander and libel is traditional and legal rather than absolute: in common understanding, slander is oral and libel is written, though modern law may treat both as forms of defamation. Slander can also be used more generally for damaging accusations about a person or institution. Because the word carries strong connotations of dishonesty and reputational harm, it is commonly used in discussions of gossip, propaganda, political attacks, and irresponsible allegations. Its clear moral emphasis makes it effective when describing words that function as weapons against a person's standing.
A false and damaging statement about someone, especially one made orally.
"The witness was accused of making slander against the defendant."
In legal contexts, the term often specifically refers to an oral defamatory statement, although definitions vary by jurisdiction.
To make a false and damaging statement about someone, typically maliciously.
"He slandered his neighbor by claiming that she had committed fraud."
This use is especially common in journalism, politics, and discussions of personal conflict.
Used when referring to multiple false and damaging statements or accusations.
"The talk show host faced a lawsuit for making slanders about a former employee."
Slander has lasting force: a spoken falsehood can leave a reputation wounded long after the original words are forgotten.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slander come from?
The word entered Middle English through Old French slandre, meaning to accuse falsely or calumniate. It ultimately derives from Latin calumnia, a false accusation or malicious report, and the related verb calumnari, “to accuse falsely.” The same Latin foundation produced English calumny and calumnious, while other related forms include calumniate. In modern English, slander developed both noun and verb uses while retaining its long-standing association with false accusations against a person's reputation.
Related word forms
How slander is actually used
In everyday English, slander is used for false accusations that damage someone's reputation. In legal usage, it commonly refers to an oral defamatory statement, while libel traditionally concerns written or published statements; the precise legal definitions vary by jurisdiction.
Easily confused with slander
Traditionally, slander refers to a spoken false statement that harms someone's reputation, whereas libel refers to a written or published one.