Maligns

To malign means to speak about someone or something in a critical and disparaging way, often with the intent to harm their reputation. It involves making false or unfair statements, spreading harmful rumors, or casting aspersions on their character or abilities. The act of maligning aims to damage the subject's standing and influence, leading to distrust, disapproval, or even social ostracization. It often involves exaggeration, distortion of facts, or outright fabrication, designed to diminish the person or entity in the eyes of others. This behavior can have serious consequences, impacting professional opportunities, personal relationships, and overall well-being.

Maligns meaning with examples

• The political smear campaign relentlessly maligns the opposing candidate, fabricating scandals and spreading baseless accusations about their financial dealings. This blatant disregard for truth aims to sway voters through fear and misinformation, ultimately undermining the democratic process.
• Gossip columns, unfortunately, often **malign** celebrities, creating sensationalized stories that negatively impact their reputations and lead to harassment from fans and the public. Their private lives are turned into a spectacle, and their character is reduced to often-fabricated storylines.
• Jealous of her colleague's promotion, Sarah actively maligns him to their shared supervisor, portraying him as incompetent and untrustworthy. Her intention is to sabotage his career and undermine his prospects, showing a lack of professional integrity and blatant disloyalty.
• Despite lacking evidence, the newspaper continuously maligns the company's environmental practices, attempting to damage their brand image and tarnish their reputation with customers and investors. This biased reporting creates an atmosphere of distrust and fuels unfounded anxieties.
• Feeling betrayed, he began to **malign** his ex-partner to their mutual friends, spreading lies and exaggerations about their past relationship in an effort to seek revenge and exact emotional damage. This behavior reflected a deep-seated bitterness and a destructive impulse to hurt.