defamation

noun

The action of damaging the good reputation of someone; slander or libel.

SYNONYMS

abuseaspersionsbackbitingbad-mouthingcalumnycensurecharacter assassinationcontumelycriticismdefamation of characterdenigrationderogationdetractiondisparagementfalse reportinsultknockinglibelliemaledictionmalicious gossipmuckrakingmud-slingingobloquyopprobriumrumourscandalscandalmongeringslagging offslanderslursmearsmear campaigntittle-tattletraducementvilification