GOSSIPMONGER

Definition of GOSSIPMONGER

GOSSIPMONGER Noun

Gossipmonger is a noun that refers to a person who spreads or engages in gossip, which involves sharing or discussing information about others, often involving rumors or private details. It typically carries a negative connotation, implying that the person is involved in the indiscreet or harmful exchange of personal information.

Person Who Spreads Gossip: A gossipmonger is someone who actively disseminates or participates in gossip. For example, “She was known as a gossipmonger in the office, always sharing personal details about her colleagues,” indicates that she frequently spread rumors or private information.

Individual Engaged in Rumor-Mongering: Gossipmonger can also describe a person who engages in the act of rumor-mongering or spreading unverified information about others. For instance, “The local gossipmonger enjoyed talking about everyone’s business, often embellishing the stories,” implies that the person indulges in spreading rumors.

In Social and Workplace Contexts: Gossipmonger is often used to describe individuals who create or propagate gossip within social or workplace settings. For example, “The gossipmonger’s tales caused tension among the team,” suggests that the spread of gossip led to discord or discomfort.

In Media and Public Contexts: Gossipmonger can also refer to people who spread rumors or sensational stories in media or public forums. For instance, “The gossipmonger tabloids were full of sensational stories about celebrities,” indicates that such media outlets focus on spreading gossip.

Negative Connotation: The term gossipmonger generally carries a negative connotation, implying that the person engages in spreading gossip in a way that may be intrusive or harmful. For example, “Being labeled a gossipmonger can damage one’s reputation,” reflects the negative impact of such behavior.

In summary, gossipmonger is a noun that describes a person who spreads or engages in gossip, involving the sharing of rumors or private information about others. It is often used with a negative connotation to indicate someone who participates in the indiscreet or harmful exchange of personal details. Understanding gossipmonger helps in recognizing its role in describing individuals involved in gossip and rumor-mongering across various contexts.

Examples of GOSSIPMONGER in a sentence

  • The office gossipmonger was known for spreading rumors about everyone’s personal lives.
  • She avoided talking to the gossipmonger because she didn’t want her private matters becoming public.
  • The town’s gossipmonger was always the first to know about any local scandal.
  • Despite her efforts to stay out of the drama, she found herself labeled a gossipmonger by her peers.
  • The gossipmonger at the party kept everyone entertained with sensational stories about celebrities.
  • His reputation as a gossipmonger made it difficult for him to be trusted with sensitive information.
  • The gossipmonger often exaggerated the truth, which led to misunderstandings among friends.
  • They tried to ignore the gossipmonger and focus on their own work rather than the rumors being spread.

Origin of GOSSIPMONGER

The word gossipmonger has its roots in Old English and Middle English, evolving through various cultural and linguistic shifts to describe a person who spreads rumors or engages in idle talk.

  • Old English:
    • Godsib (godparent, close friend)
    • The word gossip originated from godsib, meaning godparent or a close friend. In Old English, it referred to someone who was closely involved in the birth of a child, later expanding to describe companions or those who shared intimate conversations.
  • Middle English:
    • Gossib (companion, one who indulges in talk)
    • By the Middle English period, the meaning of gossip had shifted to refer to people who engaged in idle chat or shared private information, often in a lighthearted or frivolous way.
  • Modern English:
    • Gossip + Monger (a person who spreads rumors or engages in idle talk)
    • The term monger, meaning a person who deals or trades in something, was added to gossip in the 19th century to form gossipmonger. It described someone who actively spreads rumors or engages in the exchange of gossip.

The word gossipmonger evolved from its original meaning of a close confidant to one who spreads rumors, reflecting the negative connotation of indulging in idle talk or hearsay.

Synonyms

  • Rumor spreader
  • Busybody
  • Tattler
  • Scandal-monger
  • Snoop
  • Informer
  • Tale-bearer
  • Blabbermouth

Antonyms

  • Quiet person
  • Reserved individual
  • Keeper of secrets
  • Discreet person
  • Silent observer
  • Private person
  • Non-intrusive person
  • Confidential person

Related

  • Gossip
  • Rumor
  • Scandal
  • Hearsay
  • Tattle
  • Informal chatter
  • Spreader of rumors
  • Secret-sharing

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