Definition

A person who makes false statements about someone to damage their reputation.

Example

The slanderer spread lies about her former friend, causing a lot of trouble.

Conversation

Did you hear what happened to Tom at work?

Yeah, I heard someone called him a slanderer during the meeting.

That's really unfair; he's always been honest with everyone.

I know! It's tough when people spread lies like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Slanderer → It is formed from "slander" (from Old French *esclandre*, meaning to defame or speak ill of) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A slanderer is a person who speaks ill of someone, causing harm to their reputation.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who 'defames' ('slander') another person — the '-er' just means a person. A slanderer is someone who speaks ill of others.

Visually Confused Words