libel
Libel (noun) means a false published statement — written, printed, or pictured — that damages someone's reputation. Example: “The tabloid printed a libel about the actor and got sued for it.”
How to use libel
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWriting or publishing something false that hurts someone's reputation — the written version of defamation.
Libel is written/published defamation; slander is the spoken version. Don't mix the two up in legal contexts.
Word forms
libeled past tense, libelled past tense, libels plural, libels singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The tabloid printed a _____ about the actor and got sued for it.
Etymology
From Old French libelle, from Latin libellus, "little book" — originally just any short written document, long before it narrowed to mean a damaging false statement.
Frequently asked questions
What does “libel” mean?
The word “libel” means a false published statement — written, printed, or pictured — that damages someone's reputation. In plain terms, writing or publishing something false that hurts someone's reputation — the written version of defamation.
How do you pronounce “libel”?
“Libel” is pronounced LEYE-buhl (/ˈlaɪbəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “libel” in a sentence?
Here is “libel” used in a sentence: “The tabloid printed a libel about the actor and got sued for it.”
What part of speech is “libel”?
Depending on how it is used, “libel” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “libel” come from?
The word “libel” comes from Latin. From Old French libelle, from Latin libellus, "little book" — originally just any short written document, long before it narrowed to mean a damaging false statement.
Is “libel” a common word?
“Libel” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “libel” have?
“Libel” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a false published statement — written, printed, or pictured — that damages someone's reputation.