Nachrede

Nachrede is a German term for the act of talking about or repeating negative information about another person, often in the form of rumors or unverified claims, that can harm the person’s reputation. The word derives from nach- (after, about) and Rede (speech).

In everyday use, Nachrede refers to gossip or rumors spread about someone, frequently in social settings or media. The key feature is that the statements concern factual claims about the person rather than mere opinions or insults. The harm arises from the impression left on others and the potential impact on the person’s standing.

In legal contexts, Nachrede is linked to defamation. In German-speaking jurisdictions such as Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland, two related offenses are defined: üble Nachrede and Verleumdung. Üble Nachrede involves presenting or disseminating a claim about another person that harms their reputation, typically when the speaker asserts it as a fact and believes it to be true or cannot establish the truth. Verleumdung involves false statements about a person that are known or intended to be false at the time of assertion, with the aim of harming reputation. Both offenses can carry criminal penalties and civil liability for damages.

Social and ethical aspects emphasize that Nachrede can undermine trust, damage reputations, and cause social harm. Many contexts encourage avoiding gossip, promoting respectful communication, and addressing disputes through direct, factual dialogue rather than rumors.