Search Dictionary
Definition of libelous

libelous

/ˈlaɪ.bəl.əs/
(UK: libellous)
li · bel · ous
Adverb:libelously
JUMP TO:

libelous Lexical Profile

libelous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

American Containing, constituting, or characterized by a false and malicious published statement that damages a person's reputation.

Example

"The newspaper immediately retracted the article after legal counsel warned that several unverified claims were potentially libelous."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for libelous
Antonyms
View all antonyms for libelous

Word Nuance & Usage

In strict legal usage, 'libelous' refers specifically to written, printed, or broadcast defamation, whereas 'slanderous' refers to spoken defamation. In British English, the word is typically spelled 'libellous'.

• Nearby Words

libation
libel
libeler
libelous
libelously
liberal
liberalism

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from 'libel' (via Old French from Latin 'libellus', meaning 'little book' or 'pamphlet', a diminutive of 'liber', 'book') plus the adjectival suffix '-ous'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Libelous. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/libelous
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.