allegation, notorious, pander, retract, scandalous, specious
The National Enquirer, a publication notorious for pandering to the gossip-hungry public with scandalous stories, retracted its claims that Britney Spears and Kevin Federline are planning to divorce. The newspaper printed an apology to the couple for publishing the specious allegations.
notorious - (adjective) having a bad reputation that is usually widespread
pander - (verb) to cater to the low desires and tastes of others; to exploit the weaknesses of others
scandalous - (adjective) shocking; causing injury to one's reputation
retract - (verb) to take back
specious - (adjective) seemingly true but actually false
allegation - (noun) a statement made without proof