he that has an ill name is half hanged

Definition & Meaning of "he that has an ill name is half hanged"

he that has an ill name is half hanged

used to imply that a person with a negative reputation is more likely to be judged harshly or punished severely, even if they are innocent

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "he that has an ill name is half hanged" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "he that has an ill name is half hanged" dates back to the 16th century and was first recorded by John Heywood in his 1546 work 'Dialogue of Proverbs.' The saying highlights the unfairness of prejudices and how quickly people may assume guilt based on reputation rather than facts. While it warns against the dangers of a negative reputation, it also highlights the need for others to avoid quick judgments and assumptions.

Example

Despite being innocent of the crime, the suspect's prior convictions led to a harsher sentence, demonstrating how he that has an ill name is half hanged.