
defamation | Wex | US Law | LII / Legal Information Institute
Defamation is a statement that injures a third party's reputation. The tort of defamation includes both libel (written statements) and slander (spoken statements).
What Is Considered Defamation Under U.S. Law? - 2026 Full
Oct 10, 2025 · Learn what defamation means under U.S. law — full definition, examples, types (libel & slander), and key defenses explained in simple terms.
Defamation in the U.S.: What Counts as Defamation and When You …
Apr 3, 2025 · Learn what legally counts as defamation in the U.S., when you can sue, and how the “actual malice” standard works for public figures and private individuals.
Libel, Slander, and Defamation Law: The Basics - FindLaw
Dec 3, 2024 · Learn about the legal definition of defamation, possible defenses, and how to sue. Libel and slander are two types of defamation. Libel includes written or pictorial defamatory statements. …
Defamation | Definition, Slander vs. Libel, & Facts | Britannica
Dec 26, 2025 · Defamation, in law, the act of communicating to a third party false statements about a person that result in damage to that person’s reputation. The concept encompasses libel, or …
Defamation Law: Libel, Slander, and Legal Defenses Explained
Nov 22, 2024 · Defamation protects individuals from false statements that harm their reputation and is divided into libel and slander. Libel refers to defamatory statements made in a fixed medium, such as …
DEFAMATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
The meaning of DEFAMATION is the act of communicating false statements about a person that injure the reputation of that person : the act of defaming another; also : a communication that defames.
What Is Defamation, and Can You Sue for It? Understanding Legal …
May 29, 2025 · Defamation happens when someone makes a false statement that harms your reputation. It can be spoken or written, and both kinds can cause real damage. You can sue for …
What is Considered Defamation or Slander? – Legal Insights
Feb 1, 2025 · Learn what is considered defamation or slander in the US legal system, including key elements, types of statements, and how to protect your reputation from false claims
Defamation Definition: Libel, Slander, and Legal Remedies
Aug 4, 2025 · Defamation is a false statement presented as fact that harms a person's reputation; written defamation is libel, and spoken defamation is slander. Defamation laws vary by state, but …