'defamation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'diffamatio,' where 'dis-' meant 'away' and 'fama' meant 'reputation.'

'diffamatio' transformed into the Old French word 'diffamacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defamation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to spread rumors or false information,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'damaging someone's reputation through false statements.'