What is the term for a written false statement that damages a person's reputation?

The term for a written false statement that damages a person's reputation is libel. Libel specifically refers to defamatory statements that are published in a permanent form, such as in writing or through other visual media. This distinguishes it from slander, which involves spoken defamatory statements.

In the context of legal definitions, to qualify as libel, the statement must not only be false, but it must also cause harm to the individual's reputation. It is important to note that libel typically requires proof of damage, as it can lead to lawsuits where the injured party seeks compensation for the harm incurred. This understanding of libel as a form of defamation provides a critical insight into how reputation and freedom of speech are balanced within legal parameters.