to attack the good name or reputation of, as by uttering or publishing maliciously or falsely anything injurious; slander or libel; calumniate

The newspaper editorial defamed the politician.

Archaic . to disgrace; bring dishonor upon.

Archaic . to accuse.

verb

approve , commend , compliment , exalt , praise

verb

asperse , bad-mouth * , belie , besmirch , blacken , blister , calumniate , cast aspersions on , cast slur on , denigrate , detract , discredit , disgrace , dishonor , disparage , do a number on , knock , malign , pan * , put zingers on , roast , scandalize , scorch , slam , smear , speak evil of , stigmatize , throw mud at , traduce , vilify , villainize , vituperate , backbite , slander , slur , tear down , blemish , damage , degrade , foul , injure , lampoon , libel , revile , scandal , smirch , sully , vilipend