Leaked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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leaked
[liːkt ]
Definition
information release
Leaked refers to the unauthorized release of confidential or private information. This can happen in various contexts, such as politics, corporate environments, and personal matters. The act of leaking is often associated with a breach of trust or adherence to confidentiality agreements.
Synonyms
disclosed, divulged, revealed, spilled.
Examples of usage
- The sensitive documents were leaked to the press.
- Data was leaked from the organization, causing public outrage.
- Whistleblowers sometimes leak information to expose wrongdoing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Media and Communication
- In journalism, a 'leak' often refers to the unauthorized release of confidential information, especially from government or corporate sources.
- Notable leaks, such as the Pentagon Papers and WikiLeaks, have had significant impacts on public opinion and policy.
- Leaks can lead to accountability but also raise ethical questions regarding privacy and the protection of sources.
Science and Nature
- In environmental science, a 'leak' can refer to hazardous materials escaping from containers, posing risks to ecosystems.
- Leaks in engineering contexts can signify failures in systems designed to contain gases or fluids, leading to safety hazards.
- The phenomenon of 'leakage' is studied in many scientific disciplines, including hydrology, to understand water flow in natural systems.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, stories about leaked celebrity information often fuel tabloid headlines and social media buzz.
- Film and literature frequently depict leaks as pivotal plot devices that drive conflict and intrigue.
- The concept of 'leaks' has inspired various songs and artworks, reflecting societal attitudes toward privacy and exposure.
Psychology and Behavior
- People often experience a sense of anxiety about leaks, as they may threaten personal privacy or security.
- Research in psychology suggests that the act of leaking information can be motivated by a desire for revenge or whistleblowing.
- The phenomenon of sharing secrets can create feelings of power or relief for the leaker, but also lead to regret if the consequences are negative.
Origin of 'leaked'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'leak' comes from the Old English word 'leac', meaning to drip or flow.
- Historically, 'leak' was primarily used in the context of fluids before it became popular to refer to information.
- As the usage evolved, 'leak' took on a figurative meaning in the 20th century to describe secret information being disclosed.
The term 'leak' in the context of information initially emerged in the early 19th century, derived from the Old English word 'leccan', which means to 'allow to flow'. The metaphorical use of 'to leak' as in releasing information began in the 1950s, reflecting a shift to journalistic and political contexts where information was leaked to the press or the public without authorization. This usage has evolved significantly over the decades, particularly with the rise of digital communication and social media, where information can be leaked at unprecedented speeds, impacting public perception and instigating widespread discussion. The act of leaking has become almost synonymous with whistleblowing, where individuals expose information they believe is of public interest, challenging the power structures that seek to keep certain information hidden.