Spoken words that are known to be false and harmful a reputation an example of?

Spoken words that are known to be false and harmful to a reputation are an example of defamation.

Here's a breakdown of why:

* False: The statements must be demonstrably untrue.

* Harmful: They must damage the person's reputation, standing in the community, or ability to earn a living.

* Spoken: This refers to the fact that the statements were oral, as opposed to written (which would be libel).

Defamation is a serious legal matter and can have significant consequences for the person making the false statements.