Scuttlebutt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scuttlebutt
[ˈskʌtəlbʌt ]
Definitions
gossip
Rumors or gossip about the personal lives of other people.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scuttlebutt |
Used often in informal settings, particularly among sailors or in office environments, to refer to unofficial or speculative news.
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| gossip |
Typically involves sharing personal or sensational information about others, often with a negative connotation. It's common in social groups and can be viewed as harmful or invasive.
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| rumors |
Unverified information that circulates, often causing uncertainty or anxiety. Rumors can be spread intentionally or unintentionally and are usually speculative.
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| chatter |
Refers to casual, friendly conversation, often light and insignificant. It doesn't necessarily involve spreading news or rumors.
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Examples of usage
- I heard some scuttlebutt about the new employee.
- The scuttlebutt around the office is that there will be lay-offs next month.
naval jargon
A drinking fountain or water dispenser on a ship.
Synonyms
water cooler.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scuttlebutt |
This word is often used in a light-hearted or nautical context to refer to rumors or unofficial news. It is less common in everyday conversation but can be used humorously or to add a colorful twist to a statement.
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| water cooler |
This term is used metaphorically to describe informal conversations that happen in the workplace, usually when employees gather around the water cooler. It can encompass both gossip and general chitchat about work or personal lives.
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Examples of usage
- Meet me by the scuttlebutt for a chat.
- The sailors gathered around the scuttlebutt to get some water.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Usage
- In the U.S. Navy, 'scuttlebutt' has been used for over a century to describe informal talk or gossip among sailors.
- During World War II, the term gained popularity to signify unofficial news among troops in the military.
- Civilian life adopted the word post-war, becoming common in workplaces to describe chatter around the water cooler.
Pop Culture
- The term has been featured in various popular TV shows, highlighting its relevance in discussing rumors and gossip.
- Several songs reference scuttlebutt, often to emphasize the playful nature of rumors in social settings.
- In literature, it has been used to set a tone of intrigue or humor, showcasing the unreliable nature of hearsay.
Psychology
- Sharing scuttlebutt can fulfill social needs, as it fosters connections between people through shared knowledge.
- Gossip serves as a social tool, helping groups manage norms and behaviors by informing members about who is trustworthy.
- Psychologically, engaging in rumor-sharing can strengthen group identity, as participants bond over common narratives.
Communication
- In today's age of social media, scuttlebutt has transformed, with rumors spreading faster online than ever before.
- Informal communication like scuttlebutt plays a significant role in shaping opinions and perceptions in workplaces.
- Understanding the origins and effects of scuttlebutt can improve critical thinking around the credibility of shared information.
Origin of 'scuttlebutt'
Main points about word origin
- Originally, 'scuttlebutt' referred to a water cask on a ship where sailors gathered, leading to conversations and rumors.
- The term comes from a combination of 'scuttle' meaning to make a hole or to sink, and 'butt,' referring to a cask.
- First documented around the late 19th century, it evolved from nautical terms to general slang.
The term 'scuttlebutt' originated in naval slang, where it referred to a cask of drinking water on a ship, with a hole or 'scuttle' cut into it for access. Sailors would gather around the scuttlebutt to exchange rumors and gossip while getting a drink of water. Over time, the term evolved to also mean informal chatter or gossip in general.