3. (Law)
Defn: A malicious publication expressed either in print or in writing, or by pictures, effigies, or other signs, tending to expose another to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule. Such publication is indictable at common law.
Note: The term, in a more extended sense, includes the publication of such writings, pictures, and the like, as are of a blasphemous, treasonable, seditious, or obscene character. These also are indictable at common law.
4. (Law)
Defn: The crime of issuing a malicious defamatory publication.
5. (Civil Law & Courts of Admiralty)
Defn: A written declaration or statement by the plaintiff of his cause of action, and of the relief he seeks.
LIBEL
Li"bel, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Liebeled or Libelled; p. pr. & vb. n.
Libeling or Libelling.]
1. To defame, or expose to public hatred, contempt, or ridicule, by a writing, picture, sign, etc.; to lampoon. Some wicked wits have libeled all the fair. Pope.
2. (Law)