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

'diffamare' transformed into the Old French word 'defamer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'defame' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to spread a report,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to damage someone's reputation through false statements.'