Explanation:

- Section 499 IPC: Defines defamation in the Indian Penal Code. It covers any act of making or publishing an imputation concerning any person, intending to harm, or knowing it will harm, their reputation.

- Section 500 IPC: Prescribes punishment for defamation. It imposes a penalty, which may include imprisonment or a fine.

- Section 501 IPC: Focuses on the specific act of printing or engraving defamatory material, knowing it to be defamatory.

- None of these: This option would be incorrect as the definition of defamation is clearly covered in the above sections.

?? Correct Answer: Option 2 - Section 499 IPC