Slander is a form of defamation marked by the use of false, derogatory, harmful statements in spoken word. It is a form of defamation, similar to libel, and can also include body gestures or sign language. In the United States, slander has been ruled a civil wrongdoing, or tort, which allows for lawsuits to be taken against individuals who commit slander. The court recognizes two types of slander: slander per se and slander quod. In an instance of slander per se, there is no ambiguity as to whether or not the person's statement was slanderous. In an instance of slander per quod, on the other hand, the slander may be indirect. If the slander is per quod, the plaintiff must be able prove that false, derogatory statements were made with malice in order to make claim to damages.