Slander
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3
Spoken Context
Use 'slander' for spoken words, not written ones, which is called 'libel'. His offhand comment, if spread, could be considered slander.
Pro Tip 2/3
Legal Implications
'Slander' can involve legal consequences due to damage to reputation. She won the court case after proving the slanderous remarks.
Pro Tip 3/3
Proof of Harm
For a statement to be 'slander', there must be proof it harmed someone's reputation. Despite the gossip, he couldn't show how the slander affected his status.