What is slander?

Slander refers specifically to oral defamation of character. When someone makes a false spoken statement about another person that can harm their reputation, that act is identified as slander. This can involve derogatory statements that damage someone's social standing, business reputation, or personal relationships. The key element here is that the defamation occurs in spoken form, distinguishing it from libel, which deals with written defamation.

Understanding slander is crucial as it connects to broader concepts of civil rights and civil liberties, particularly concerning freedom of speech and the limits that exist to protect individuals from harmful falsehoods. In this context, knowing what constitutes slander can help individuals navigate discussions about free speech and the potential consequences of making defamatory remarks.