Rumormonger: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a person who spreads rumors, often with negative connotations. Typically portrays someone who does this habitually and likes creating drama.

• She's known as the office rumormonger, always stirring up trouble.
• The rumormonger enjoyed the chaos they created with their false stories.

Similar to 'rumormonger', it describes a person who spreads gossip. Often used in a critical way to show disapproval of someone's habit of sharing gossip.

• Every neighborhood has at least one gossipmonger who knows everyone's business.
• He's become a gossipmonger, always chatting about others' private affairs.

Refers to the process or environment where rumors are generated and spread. Can be used neutrally or negatively depending on the context.

• As soon as the news broke, the rumor mill went into overdrive.
• In a small town, the rumor mill can be relentless.

Typically used to describe someone, often a child, who tells on others, revealing secrets or small misdeeds. Has a negative and childish connotation.

• Nobody likes a tattletale, so try to solve conflicts on your own.
• When they were kids, his sister was often called a tattletale for telling their mother everything.