What term refers to false statements spoken with the purpose of injuring the reputation of another?

• A. Slander
• B. Defamation
• C. Libel
• D. Calumny

Answer: (A)

Slander is the term for false statements about someone that are spoken to others and intended to harm their reputation. It fits here because the description specifies spoken words, not written. Defamation is the broad umbrella term for false statements that harm reputation, whether spoken or written; libel refers to written defamation. Calumny is a related idea, often used in a broader or older sense, but when the issue is spoken false accusations aimed at damaging someone’s reputation, slander is the precise fit.