<p><strong>Verb (used with object):</strong></p><ul><li>to attack the good name or reputation of, as by uttering or publishing maliciously or falsely anything injurious; slander or libel; calumniate: The newspaper editorial defamed the politician.</li><li>Synonyms: backbite, denigrate, revile, derogate, vilify, discredit, disparage, malign</li><li>Archaic: to disgrace; bring dishonor upon.</li><li>Archaic: to accuse.</li></ul>