calumny

Etymology

From Middle French calomnie, from Latin calumnia (“slander”), perhaps from calvor (“I deceive”). Doublet of challenge.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈkæləmni/

• Audio (Aus)

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Noun

calumny (countable and uncountable, plural calumnies)

1. A falsification or misrepresentation intended to disparage or discredit another.

   Accusations of abuse were pure extortive calumny in a malicious bid to make money.

2. False charges brought about to tarnish another's reputation or standing.