De*tract"er (?), n. One who detracts; a detractor.
Other detracters and malicious writers.
Sir T. North.
De*tract"ing*ly, adv. In a detracting manner.
De*trac"tion (?), n. [F. détraction, L. detractio.] 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.
Syn. -- Depreciation; disparagement; derogation; slander; calumny; aspersion; censure.
De*trac"tious (?), a. Containing detraction; detractory. [R.] Johnson.