The term comes from the old French libel, libelle, libeau, corresponding to French: libelle, from Latin: libellus, diminutive of Latin: liber, book, inner bark of a tree. The name was borrowed from the Roman law where a pleading known as the libellus conventionis was employed to commence an action.

Where does libel come from?

Libel. Libel is defined as defamation by written or printed words, pictures, or in any form other than spoken words or gestures. The law of libel originated in the 17th century in England. With the growth of publication came the growth of libel and development of the tort of libel.

When was the word libel first used?

The first known use of libel was in the 14th century.