What does slattered mean?
To slatter someone is to subject that person to harsh, contemptuous, or abusive speech. The verb implies a deliberately hostile verbal attack rather than ordinary criticism, and it may target a person directly or characterize a person as contemptible. Slatting someone is therefore stronger and more insulting than saying that one has criticized or criticized them harshly. The word is chiefly associated with British English, although it is also understood in American English. Typical contexts include political arguments, press disputes, and heated personal confrontations. For example, a speaker might say that an opponent's remarks were merely an attempt to slatter a rival’s character. In less confrontational language, “criticize,” “disparage,” or “denounce” may be more appropriate; “vilify” can be a stronger formal alternative.
To attack someone verbally with harsh, abusive, or derogatory language.
"He continued to slatter his critics long after the dispute had ended."
Transitive and strongly derogatory; chiefly British in current usage.
To criticize or disparage someone or something severely.
"The report was written to slatter the government’s handling of the crisis."
Often used in contexts involving political or personal conflict.
To slatter is to turn criticism into an assault made of words.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slattered come from?
The verb was formed in the early 19th century from “slat” with the suffix “-ed.” “Slat” itself comes from an Old English word for a thin strip or bar of wood. The verbal use developed the meaning of striking or assailing verbally, from which the modern sense of harsh verbal abuse developed.
Related word forms
How slattered is actually used
Informal and strongly derogatory. It is especially associated with British English and is somewhat more common there than in American English.
Easily confused with slattered
A slat is a thin narrow strip of wood or another material, whereas to slatter someone is to attack them verbally.
To slate someone is to criticize them sharply, while to slatter someone is more hostile and abusive in tone.