gossip
GOS-ip
/ˈɡɒsɪp/
Casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true.
Often implies trivial, idle, or even malicious talk. It can spread quickly and harm reputations.
The story behind the word. The word 'gossip' has a surprisingly warm and friendly origin! It comes from the Old English 'godsibb,' which meant 'godparent.' A 'godsibb' was a close friend or relative who stood as a sponsor at a baptism. Over time, it evolved to mean any familiar acquaintance, then a person who engages in idle talk, and finally, by the 16th century, the idle talk itself. So, it went from a trusted spiritual companion to someone who spreads rumors!
Word relationships
- rumor: A currently circulating story or report of uncertain or doubtful truth.
- scandal: An action or event regarded as morally or legally wrong and causing general public outrage.
- tittle-tattle: Frivolous or malicious gossip; more informal.
- fact: A thing that is known or proved to be true.
- truth: The quality or state of being true.
Commonly confused with
- news: 'News' is typically factual and publicly reported; 'gossip' is informal, often unverified, and usually about private matters.
Word family
- gossipy (adjective): Fond of or characterized by gossip.
Collocations
- spread gossip
- idle gossip
- juicy gossip
- rumor and gossip
- engage in gossip
Idioms & expressions
- gossip column
Example sentences
- "The school hallways were always buzzing with gossip about who was dating whom and who was in trouble." Describing school rumors.
- "Spreading office gossip can create a hostile work environment and erode trust among colleagues." In a workplace scenario.
- "I try to avoid engaging in gossip because it often leads to misunderstandings and hurt feelings." From a personal observation.
Memory hook
Imagine a 'goose' that 'sips' tea and then 'sips' out secrets about everyone. Goose sips secrets
When not to use
Do not use 'gossip' for factual news or verified information about others. It specifically refers to informal, often speculative, and sometimes harmful talk.
Fun facts
- The original meaning of 'gossip' as a godparent or close friend is still preserved in some archaic dialects.
Related words
Explore more words
scuttlebutt, rumormonger, hearsay, defamation, Garrulous, prattle
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