Definition

A person who makes false or unfair accusations against someone, especially in politics, to damage their reputation.

Example

During the election, the candidate accused his opponent of being a mudslinger for spreading lies about him.

Conversation

Did you see the debate last night?

Yeah, it was intense! I can't believe how much of a mudslinger he was.

Right? It's like he didn't have any real points to make.

Exactly! Just throwing dirt at his opponent left and right.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mudslinger → The word is formed from "mud" (from Old English *mudd*, meaning wet earth or soft soil) and "slinger" (from the verb "sling", meaning to throw). A mudslinger is someone who throws mud, metaphorically speaking, to damage someone's reputation, often through slander or insults.

Memory Tip

Think of someone throwing 'mud' to 'damage' someone's reputation — that's why a mudslinger is someone who tries to tarnish others.

Visually Confused Words