Concept:
Calumny means making false and malicious statements intended to damage someone's reputation.
Step 1: Understand the meaning of calumny.
Calumny refers to slander, false accusation, or character assassination.
Step 2: Examine each option.
• Defamation = damaging someone's reputation by false statements.
• Praise = expression of approval or admiration.
• Vindication = justification or clearing from blame.
• Aspersion = damaging remark or attack on reputation.
Step 3: Identify synonyms.
The words closest in meaning to calumny are:
\[
\text{Defamation}
\]
and
\[
\text{Aspersion}
\]
Therefore,
\[
{(A)\text{ and }(D)\text{ only}}
\]
Hence,
\[
{\text{Option (A)}}
\]