defamatory — damaging the good reputation of someone; slanderous or libelous

a scheming office worker whispers malicious lies about a colleague to other employees gathered around. The gossiper points toward an innocent worker sitting alone at their desk in the background. The rumors spread quickly as each listener turns to share the false information with others nearby. The targeted colleague notices people staring and whispering, looking confused and hurt by the sudden negative attention. Other coworkers begin avoiding eye contact and turning away from the victim. someone's good reputation being damaged through slanderous gossip and lies