What is the meaning of "slander" in a social context?

In a social context, "slander" refers specifically to making false spoken statements that damage someone's reputation. It is a form of defamation, where the intent is often to harm the individual's standing within a community or society. Slander involves verbal communication, distinguishing it from written forms of defamation, which are referred to as libel. Understanding this definition is crucial for recognizing how damaging misinformation can spread through speech and the potential legal ramifications that can arise from such actions. This concept underscores the importance of truthfulness in social interactions and the serious consequences that can stem from making unsubstantiated claims about others.