What is the definition of "defamation"?

Defamation is defined as the act of communicating false statements that harm a person's reputation. This legal concept involves making untrue claims about an individual that can damage their standing in the eyes of the community or harm their professional life. It is crucial that the statements made are indeed false; truthful statements, regardless of their impact, do not constitute defamation. Defamation can manifest in two main forms: slander (spoken) and libel (written).

While options describing truthful statements, misleading advertising, or publicly defending someone's character do not align with the definition of defamation, they illustrate different aspects of communication and legal principles. For instance, truthful statements cannot be defaming in nature, and misleading advertising pertains to consumer protection rather than personal reputational harm. Defending someone's character also does not fit the definition, as it implies a positive action rather than the negative impact associated with defamation. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the essential element of falsehood that is integral to the definition of defamation.