LIBEL, LIBELLOUS
ADJECTIVES
► FAMOUS of utterances, etc.: libellous, slanderous → 1543 obs.
NOUNS
► CALUMNIATION a libellous report; a slander, calumny → 1588
► CALUMNY false and malicious representation of the words or actions of others calculated to injure their reputation; libellous detraction, slander → 1564
► CARTEL a slanderous writing, a libel → 1590 obs.
► GARAGE ACTION a legal action for libel (usually against a newspaper) brought by the police on their own behalf; the damages awarded are often substantial enough to buy a new garage for the police officer’s home → 1998 UK sl.
► LIE BILL an acknowledgement of slander or libel → 1919 Amer. dial.
Lexicophilia 