Gossipped - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

discussing someone

Gossipped is the past tense of gossip, which means to engage in conversation about the personal or private affairs of others, often in a casual or idle manner. This act usually involves sharing rumors or information that may not be substantiated. Gossipping can sometimes lead to the spread of misinformation and may affect relationships.

Synonyms

chattered, chirped, rumored, talked.

Examples of usage

They gossipped about their neighbor's personal life.
The friends gossipped over coffee in the afternoon.
She gossipped about the latest celebrity scandal.
Employees often gossipped during their breaks.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Gossip can serve social functions, helping to create community ties and social hierarchies among groups.
Research suggests that sharing gossip can enhance friendships by reinforcing trust and connection.
Studies have shown that both positive and negative gossip can influence behavior, affecting how individuals are perceived socially.

Pop Culture

Television shows often depict gossiping as a form of entertainment, from reality TV dramas to sitcoms.
Platforms like social media have amplified gossip culture, where information spreads rapidly and sometimes inaccurately.
Famous gossip columns have influenced public perception of celebrities, illustrating the power of shared information.

Literature

Gossip often features prominently in classic literature, portraying social groups navigating intrigue and scandal.
In Jane Austen's works, characters often engage in gossip, reflecting societal norms and the importance of reputation.
Modern novels also explore the implications of gossip on character dynamics, like in 'The Great Gatsby,' where rumors dictate social status.

Communication Studies

Gossip is considered a form of informal communication and can be crucial for sharing information about social norms and behaviors.
Some scholars argue that gossiping is an adaptive behavior that has shaped human social structures throughout history.
The way gossip is conveyed is often more revealing about social relationships than the content itself, affecting group cohesion.

Origin of 'gossipped'

Main points about word origin

The word 'gossip' comes from the Old English 'godsib,' meaning 'a person related to you by baptism,' reflecting how close friends used to share news.
From the 16th century, 'gossip' evolved to refer to 'women talking informally' and later to any casual conversation about others.
The transformation from a term about friendship to a concept of casual rumor shows the shift in social dynamics over time.

The word 'gossip' has Old English origins, specifically from the term 'gōdsibb' which referred to a godparent or someone who is a close friend. This word evolved over time, influencing the development of the word 'gossip' as it is used today. By the 16th century, 'gossip' came to refer to chatter or conversation that is often trivial or focused on the personal affairs of others. It is noteworthy that throughout its history, the connotation of gossip has fluctuated, reflecting societal attitudes towards discussing the lives of others. With the advent of media in the 20th century, the scope of gossip expanded to encompass not only personal lives but also public figures and celebrities, leading to the current context where gossip is prevalent in various forms of social interaction.

Gossipped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations