Detraction

Part of speech: noun (n.)

1. A taking away or withdrawing. [Obs.] The detraction of the eggs of the said wild fowl. Bacon.

2. The act of taking away from the reputation or good name of another; a lessening or cheapening in the estimation of others; the act of depreciating another, from envy or malice; calumny.

Synonyms: Depreciation; disparagement; derogation; slander; calumny; aspersion; censure.