What is the term for defamation that occurs through spoken statements?

The term for defamation that occurs through spoken statements is slander. Slander refers specifically to the act of making false spoken statements that damage someone's reputation. This form of defamation is characterized by its oral nature, distinguishing it from libel, which pertains to defamation through written or published statements. Understanding the difference between these two is crucial, as the legal implications and requirements for proving each type can vary significantly.

In contrast, malpractice refers to professional negligence and typically involves healthcare providers breaching their duty of care, which does not pertain to the issue of defamation. The term "defamation in writing" is more of a description than a legal term and would not be the accurate term; the correct term in the legal context is libel as it covers written statements. Thus, the specific nature of slander being related to oral statements is what solidifies it as the correct answer.