Run down

DEFAME

Think of a verb that means to harm someone's reputation by spreading false or malicious statements, often done publicly. It starts with "de" and isn’t about physical movement.

"Run down" is a clever double-meaning clue. In one sense, it literally means to criticize or belittle someone, which aligns with "deface" (to damage reputation) combined with "me"—a playful twist hinting at the answer. Alternatively, "run" can signal a verb in the answer, while "down" suggests a downward direction in wordplay, reinforcing the idea of tearing someone down. The answer "DEFAME" fits because it directly means to harm someone’s reputation, matching the clue’s figurative meaning.