malign
What does "malign" mean?
To malign someone is to speak about them in a spitefully critical or harmful manner. The mental image is that of someone actively spreading poisonous rumors or false accusations with the intent to damage another person's reputation or character. This is a formal verb, often used in journalistic or legal contexts rather than casual conversation. It implies a sense of injustice, suggesting that the target of the maligning is being treated unfairly or lied about. You will often see it used in phrases like "malign the character" or "malign the reputation."
"malign" in conversation
Workplace gossip
I heard the manager is trying to malign your record to get you fired.
I heard the manager is trying to malign your record to get you fired.
That is ridiculous; my performance reviews have been perfect.
That is ridiculous; my performance reviews have been perfect.
Used here to describe a deliberate attempt to ruin someone's professional standing.
Defending a friend
Don't let them malign your name like that.
Don't let them malign your name like that.
I know, I’m going to set the record straight tomorrow.
I know, I’m going to set the record straight tomorrow.
Highlights the defensive stance taken when someone is being unjustly criticized.
"malign" in a sentence
She felt maligned by the unfair accusations.
She felt maligned by the unfair accusations.
It is cruel to malign a person who cannot defend themselves.
It is cruel to malign a person who cannot defend themselves.
The opposition party sought to malign the candidate’s integrity through a series of misleading advertisements.
The opposition party sought to malign the candidate’s integrity through a series of misleading advertisements.
