Defamation

From the Latin From Latin 'defamare,' meaning to disgrace or dishonor..

In one sentence

A false statement that damages someone's reputation and causes real harm.

Plain English

Defamation happens when someone makes a false claim about you that hurts your reputation, and you suffer actual damages as a result—like lost business or emotional distress. The statement must be presented as fact, not opinion, and it has to be communicated to at least one other person. There are two main types: libel (written) and slander (spoken). Truth is always a complete defense, meaning you can't be sued for defamation if what you said was actually true.

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Example

A newspaper publishes an article falsely claiming a restaurant owner was arrested for health code violations when no such arrest occurred. The restaurant loses customers and revenue as a direct result. The owner can sue for defamation because the statement was false, published, and caused measurable harm.

Used in a sentence

“The celebrity sued the tabloid for defamation after it printed a false story about her personal life.”

Related terms

Misrepresentation

A false statement of fact made to induce someone into a contract.

Punitive Damages

Extra money awarded to punish wrongful conduct and deter future misconduct.

judgment

The court's final decision in a criminal case, determining guilt or innocence and imposing sentence.

appeal as of right

An appeal that a defendant can file automatically without needing special permission from the court.

Dram Shop Liability

Legal responsibility of bars or stores for harm caused by serving alcohol to intoxicated people.

Negligence

Failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm to another person.

Comparative Negligence

A rule that reduces damages based on the victim's own percentage of fault.

Contributory Negligence

A plaintiff's own carelessness that partially caused their injury, reducing their recovery.

This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change over time. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney.