AleAlejandro [#14]
Ok forget what I said about getting fired since it doesn't really apply in this case. Also since it's word vs word I doubt a defamation case will go anywhere although I really have no clue how it works
im taking a law class rn in college
iirc since its spoken word its slander (spoken defemation) its clearly had an effect on the workplace culture as well as your reputation so if im not mistaken you can sue under pretense of either mental duress ( that this rumor has caused you undo harm mentally) though im told that is finicky cause some states require a physical manifestation of ur mental distress i,e ulcers, chronic headaches, etc.
Or as I said, something related to slander. It could also be a financial thing if you can prove that you were limited in your opportunities, via either a promotion being retracted or not being able to find another job because of a bad reference.
I AM NOT A LAWER OR A LAW STUDENT IM TAKING LAW BECAUSE ITS RELATED TO MY MAJOR PLEASE SEEK ACTUAL COUNSEL IF YOU THINK THERE IS A CASE TO BE HAD