Defamation is a broad term that refers to false statements harming someone's reputation, with two specific types: libel and slander. Libel refers to defamatory statements made in a permanent form, such as written words, images, or broadcast media. In contrast, slander refers to defamatory statements made in a temporary form, such as spoken words or gestures. Libel is generally considered more harmful due to its lasting nature and wider reach, whereas slander is typically seen as less impactful because it is less likely to remain accessible over time.