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Divulged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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divulged

[dɪˈvʌldʒd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

revealing information

To divulge something means to make private or secret information known to others. It often refers to the act of disclosing confidential information that was previously withheld or kept secret. The term can apply to a variety of contexts, including personal secrets, business information, or even state secrets. Divulging information may carry ethical implications, especially if it breaches trust or legal agreements.

Synonyms

betray, disclose, reveal, uncover.

Examples of usage

  • She divulged her secret to her best friend.
  • The company refused to divulge its sales figures.
  • He was reluctant to divulge any details about the investigation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal contexts, 'divulged' often refers to the disclosure of confidential information, such as trade secrets or personal details.
  • There are laws protecting information from being divulged without permission, like in doctor-patient confidentiality.
  • Whistleblowers may divulge secret information to expose wrongdoing, often in exchange for legal protections.

Literature

  • In classical literature, characters often face dilemmas about whether to divulge secrets, affecting plots and character development.
  • Divulging secrets can be a pivotal moment in novels, sometimes leading to dramatic revelations or conflicts.
  • Authors use this concept to explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of keeping or sharing secrets.

Cultural Context

  • In many cultures, sharing secrets is seen as a test of intimacy and trust among friends or loved ones.
  • Certain cultures have rituals or ceremonies around divulging secrets, reinforcing social bonds or community ties.
  • The act of divulging can also be perceived as gossip, depending on the context and manner of delivery.

Origin of 'divulged'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'divulgare', which means 'to make common' or 'to spread around'.
  • In medieval times, it was often used in the context of spreading news, especially about important events.
  • The prefix 'di-' means 'apart' and 'vulgare' relates to the public, reflecting the idea of bringing a secret into the open.

The word 'divulge' derives from the Latin verb 'divulgare', which means 'to make known' or 'to spread abroad'. The Latin term itself is composed of 'di-', meaning 'apart' or 'asunder', and 'vulgare', meaning 'to make known' or 'to publish'. This Latin root reflects the action of taking something that is private or not widely known and making it public. The term entered the English language around the early 17th century, maintaining its connotation of revealing secrets or confidential information. 'Divulge' has since been used in both formal and informal contexts, often associated with discussions concerning trust, confidentiality, and the ethics of information sharing.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,929, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.