a false and malicious publication printed for the purpose of defaming a living person
"The newspaper faced a lawsuit after printing a story that falsely accused the mayor of embezzling public funds."
the written statement of a plaintiff explaining the cause of action (the defamation) and any relief he seeks
"The lawyer spent hours drafting the libel, carefully detailing every defamatory remark made against his client."
A written or pictorial false statement which unjustly seeks to damage someone's reputation.
"The newspaper retracted its article after it was proven that the story about his embezzlement was a libel."
To defame someone, especially in a manner that meets the legal definition of libel.
"The newspaper editor was forced to apologize after his column contained false statements that legally constituted libel against the local mayor."