vilify

Definition

To say defamatory things about someone or something; to speak ill of.

Etymology

From Late Latin vīlificāre (“vilify”). Equivalent to vile + -ify. Compare vilipend.

Example Sentences

• "As one of the largest producers of genetically modified (GM) seeds in the country, Monsanto has been vilified by activists who describe GM products as 'frankenfood.'"
• ""Those who deliberately vilify China and sabotage the friendship between our two countries and do damage to our long-term friendship and benefits out of their sectoral or selfish interest will be cast aside in history,” he said. “Their children will be ashamed of mentioning their names.""

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