# character assassination

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/character-assassination
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A malicious discourse designed to damage the reputation of someone.

## Examples

- Their argument was just a cruel character assassination.
- The politician claimed the newspaper article was nothing more than a calculated character assassination meant to ruin his campaign.
- By spreading false rumors about her professional integrity, the rival firm engaged in a systematic character assassination that effectively destroyed her reputation within the industry.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.