libel

Definition

A written or pictorial false statement which unjustly seeks to damage someone's reputation.

Etymology

From Middle English libel, from Old French libelle, from Latin libellus (“petition”, literally “booklet”). Doublet of libelle.

Example Sentences

• ""
• "These provisions of law being in force, the steamer Rio Grande, owned, as was alleged, by persons in Mexico, being in the port of Mobile, in the Southern District of Alabama, certain materialmen, on the 26th of November, 1867, filed separate libels against her in the district court for the said district."
• "a libel of forsaking [divorcement]"