1. to speak or write about someone in a very harsh and critical way; to defame or slander
Usage: formal

Examples

• The newspaper article vilified the mayor for his handling of the crisis.
• She refused to vilify her former business partner despite their disagreement.
• Political opponents often vilify each other during election campaigns.
• The documentary was criticized for vilifying an entire profession.
• He felt that the media had unfairly vilified him.
• The author was vilified by critics for his controversial statements.