Definition of "detraction"

detraction

/dɪˈtɹækʃən/

noun
countable and uncountable, plural detractions
1. The act of detracting something, or something detracted; taking away; diminution.
2. A derogatory or malicious statement; a disparagement, misrepresentation or slander.
  Quotations
  If indeed we consider all the frivolous and petulant discourse, the impertinent chattings, the rash censures, the spiteful detractions which are so rife in the world […]
  a. 1678 (date written), Isaac Barrow, “(please specify the chapter name or sermon number). Of Industry in General”, in The Works of Dr. Isaac Barrow. […], volumes (please specify |volume=I to VII), London: A[braham] J[ohn] Valpy, […], published 1830–1831
3. (Roman Catholicism) The act of revealing previously unknown faults of another person to a third person.