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slander

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈslændər//

KK: /ˈslændɚ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make false spoken statements about someone that damage their reputation.


Example

He was accused of slandering his former business partner.


Tense Forms

Past: slandered

Past Participle: slandered


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard some rumors about Sarah, and it sounds like they're trying to slander her name.
Sloth B
That's awful! People can be so cruel sometimes.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's frustrating how easily they spread lies.
Sloth B
We should definitely stand up for her and not let them slander her further.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
defame
malign
libel
Antonyms
praise
commend
support
noun
Definition

A spoken statement that is not true and is meant to harm someone's reputation.


Example

He filed a lawsuit for slander after the rumors spread about him.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear what they said about Mark at the party last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard some pretty harsh things; it sounded like pure slander.
Sloth A
I can't believe people would spread such lies about him.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To make false spoken statements about someone that damage their reputation.


Example

He was accused of trying to slander his opponent during the election campaign.


Tense Forms

Past: slandered

Past Participle: slandered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear what they said about Mike?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's crazy how people can slander someone without any proof.
Sloth A
I know, right? It's so unfair to just make up stories.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Slander → It is derived from the Old French word *esclandre* (meaning scandal or reproach), which in turn comes from the Latin *sclāndrum* (meaning a cause of reproach). The word 'slander' refers to making false spoken statements that damage someone's reputation.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for scandal, which helps you remember that slander involves making damaging statements about someone.

Visually Confused Words
solander
islander
sander
lander
stander
slender
sanders
leander
Is this page helpful?
It's really unfair, especially when it can damage someone's reputation like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
defamation
libel
calumny
Antonyms
praise
endorsement
commendation
Absolutely, it can really damage his reputation.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
defame
malign
disparage
Antonyms
praise
commend
laud