What term refers to false statements made in writing that harm someone's reputation?

• A. slander
• B. calumny
• C. libel
• D. deceit

Answer: (C)

Written defamation is libel. When false statements about a person’s reputation are published in writing and shared with others, that civil wrong is termed libel. If the defaming statements were spoken instead of written, they would be called slander. Calumny is a broader, less precise term for false accusations intended to harm someone’s reputation, but the standard label for written defamation is libel. Deceit refers to dishonesty in general, not specifically to publishing false statements about a person.