Rumor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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rumor
[ˈruːmər ]
Definitions
spread of unverified information
A rumor is a piece of unverified information or gossip that is circulating among people. It can be true, false, or somewhere in between. Rumors can spread quickly through word of mouth, social media, or other forms of communication.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rumor |
Used when referring to information that is spread by people but has not been confirmed as true. It can be both positive or negative.
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| gossip |
Often carries a negative connotation and refers to informal talk about the personal or private affairs of others, usually spread within social circles.
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| hearsay |
Used to refer to information received from others that is not substantiated or considered as reliable evidence, often heard second-hand.
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| speculation |
Refers to the act of forming opinions or theories about something without firm evidence, often about future events or outcomes.
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Examples of usage
- The rumor about the celebrity's engagement spread like wildfire.
- Don't believe everything you hear - it could just be a rumor.
- She heard a rumor that the company was going bankrupt.
to spread unverified information
To rumor means to spread unverified information or gossip. It often involves sharing information that may not be true or accurate. Rumoring can have serious consequences, as it can damage reputations and cause unnecessary panic.
Synonyms
circulate hearsay, gossip, spread rumors.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rumor |
This word can be used in both formal and informal situations to refer to a piece of information or a story that is not necessarily based on facts. It can sometimes carry a mildly negative connotation.
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| gossip |
This word is commonly used in informal settings to describe casual conversations that involve discussing others, often in a negative or sensational manner.
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| spread rumors |
This phrase is often used in a negative context to describe the deliberate act of passing along information that may not be true, usually intended to harm someone or something.
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| circulate hearsay |
This phrase is typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts to describe the act of passing along unofficial information that has not been confirmed as true.
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Examples of usage
- People should be careful not to rumor without verifying the facts.
- He's known for rumoring about his colleagues behind their backs.
- The students started to rumor about the teacher's personal life.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Researchers have found that people are more likely to share rumors during stressful situations, as they seek explanations for uncertainty.
- The spread of misleading information is often easier than truth due to cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias.
Media Influence
- With the rise of social media, the speed and reach of rumors have dramatically increased, leading to significant impacts on public perception.
- Studies show that roughly 70% of rumors on social media turn out to be false or misleading.
Historical Context
- During times of war, rumors can significantly influence public morale and perception of events.
- The salem witch trials widely spread false rumors, leading to tragic consequences for many innocent people.
Pop Culture
- Rumors about celebrities often dominate tabloid headlines, shaping public interest and fan speculation.
- Certain songs and movies have revolved around the theme of rumors, either exploring their impact or presenting them as a backdrop for drama.
Origin of 'rumor'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'rumor' comes from the Latin word 'rumor', meaning noise or gossip.
- It first appeared in English in the early 15th century, highlighting its long-standing role in communication.
The word 'rumor' originated from the Latin word 'rumor' meaning 'common talk, public opinion'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. Rumors have played a significant role in human communication throughout history, influencing opinions, beliefs, and actions.