ˌdefəˈmāshən, -f ə mˈā- sometimes ˌdēf- noun
( -s )
Etymology: alteration (influenced by defame ) (I) of earlier diffamation, from Middle English diffamacioun, from Middle French or Medieval Latin; Middle French diffamation, from Medieval Latin diffamation-, diffamatio, from Latin diffamatus (past participle of diffamare ) + -ion-, -io -ion
1. obsolete : a bringing into disrepute : dishonor , disgrace
2. : the act of defaming another or injuring another's reputation by any slanderous communication : detraction , calumny , aspersion — compare libel , slander