crossword clue slander – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "slander," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue slander" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SLUR: An insinuation or allegation about someone that is likely to insult them or damage their reputation.
5 Letters
LIBEL: A published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation; a written defamation.
6 Letters
DEFAME: To harm the reputation of someone by saying or writing bad things about them.
MALIGN: Speak about (someone) in a spitefully critical manner.
VILIFY: Speak or write about in an abusively disparaging manner.
SMIRCH: To make something dirty or to damage someone's reputation, often morally.
7 Letters
ASPERSE: To attack the reputation of (someone or something) with defamatory statements.
CALUMNY: The making of false and defamatory statements about someone in order to damage their reputation; slander.
More About "crossword clue slander"
The term "slander" refers to the act of making a false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation. In the realm of crosswords, this clue often points to a rich vocabulary of words related to defamation, discrediting, or speaking ill of someone. Understanding the nuances between words like "slander" (spoken) and "libel" (written) can be crucial, though crosswords sometimes use them interchangeably for broader synonyms of 'damage reputation'.
When "slander" appears as a clue, solvers should consider not just direct synonyms, but also verbs describing the action of slandering, or nouns referring to the negative impact. The length of the answer is often the best guide, narrowing down possibilities from a wide range of terms that might fit the general meaning. It's a classic crossword topic, touching on aspects of law, ethics, and human interaction.
Crossword puzzles often test your breadth of vocabulary. Clues like "slander" challenge you to think beyond the most common words and delve into more sophisticated synonyms that might not be part of everyday conversation, but are perfectly valid in a formal context or within legal terminology. This is where a good crossword resource becomes invaluable!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue Carefully: Is "slander" being used as a noun or a verb? The context can drastically change the possible answers (e.g., 'DEFAME' as a verb vs. 'SLUR' as a noun).
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of boxes. This is the single most important filter for any crossword answer.
- Check Crossing Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters will quickly confirm or rule out potential solutions.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: For "slander," consider words that mean the opposite (e.g., praise, glorify) as clues sometimes use antonyms to hint at the answer.
- Explore Different Word Categories: Sometimes a clue might lead to a legal term, a general verb, or even a more colloquial expression. Keep an open mind about the type of word required.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "slander" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "slander" typically refers to synonyms for defamation, verbal abuse, or actions that damage someone's reputation. Answers often include words like LIBEL, DEFAME, MALIGN, or VILIFY.
How can I find synonyms for "slander" for my crossword?
To find synonyms for "slander," think about words related to speaking ill of someone, spreading false rumors, or harming reputation. Common answers are DEFAME, LIBEL (for written slander), MALIGN, VILIFY, ASPERSE, or CALUMNY. Consider the letter count and any other crossing letters you have.
Are there common crossword tricks related to words like "slander"?
Yes, clues related to "slander" might involve wordplay such as anagrams of related terms, homophones (words that sound alike but have different meanings), or require specific parts of speech. Sometimes the clue might hint at the 'act of slandering' versus the 'effect of slander'.