Gossiping: meaning, definitions and examples

Informal talks usually involving sharing personal or sensational information about others, often deemed unnecessary or intrusive.

• They were gossiping about their neighbor's messy divorce.
• I'm tired of all the gossiping in the office.

Casual or friendly conversation, often in a relaxed setting.

• They were chatting about their weekend plans.
• We spent the afternoon chatting at the café.

Rapid and often trivial talking, usually in a cheerful manner.

• The kids were chattering excitedly about their field trip.
• The women sat chattering over their morning coffee.

Talking rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way, often used when someone is speaking without making sense.

• The toddler was babbling happily in the corner.
• She started babbling nervously about the upcoming exam.

Spreading unverified or doubtful information, often leading to speculation and misinformation. Typically used in a more negative sense.

• They were rumoring about a potential layoff in the company.
• Rumoring can cause unnecessary panic and confusion.

Used when talking about sharing personal or private information about others, often in a disparaging or malicious manner.

• She enjoys gossiping about her neighbors' personal lives.
• Gossiping in the workplace can create a toxic environment.

Used when referring to unverified pieces of information or stories that are spread among people and may or may not be true.

• There are rumors that the company is going to lay off employees soon.
• She heard rumors about the new teacher before meeting her.

Used for informal, light, and casual conversation, not necessarily about serious topics or personal information.

• We had a quick chitchat about our weekend plans.
• The two friends engaged in some casual chitchat while waiting for their coffee.

A nautical term, but can be used informally for workplace or industry-specific gossip. It often implies insider information.

• The scuttlebutt around the office is that the boss is planning to resign.
• You can always count on some good scuttlebutt at the water cooler.

Used for idle talk or trivial gossip, often with a connotation of being petty or meaningless.

• Their conversations are filled with useless tittle-tattle.
• Stop wasting your time with tittle-tattle and focus on your work.