What is the term for defaming another person in writing?

The term for defaming another person in writing is libel. This legal concept refers specifically to the act of making false statements about someone in a written format, which damages that person's reputation. Libelous statements can occur in various forms, such as articles, online posts, or even in books, and they are typically actionable in court because they can lead to serious harm to an individual's personal or professional life.

In contrast, slander pertains to oral defamation, where damaging statements are spoken rather than written. Fraud involves deception for personal gain, while invasion of privacy relates to infringing upon someone's personal life without consent. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in both legal and ethical discussions regarding communication.