Scuttlebutt: meaning, definitions and examples

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scuttlebutt

[ˈskʌtəlbʌt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

gossip

Rumors or gossip about the personal lives of other people.

Synonyms

chatter, gossip, rumors.

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. Have you heard the latest scuttlebutt about the new manager? The scuttlebutt at the water cooler is that we might get a bonus this year.
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. She was known for spreading gossip about her neighbors. Office gossip can sometimes lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
rumors	Unverified information that circulates, often causing uncertainty or anxiety. Rumors can be spread intentionally or unintentionally and are usually speculative. There are rumors going around that the company is planning layoffs. He heard a rumor that she might move to a different city.
chatter	Refers to casual, friendly conversation, often light and insignificant. It doesn't necessarily involve spreading news or rumors. The kids' chatter filled the room with joy. There was a constant chatter among the guests at the party.

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.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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. The scuttlebutt on the ship is that we're headed for a tropical island. There's some scuttlebutt going around the office about a possible merger.
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. I heard the latest water cooler talk about the changes in our department. It's amazing how much you can learn just by joining in the water cooler conversations.

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.

The scuttlebutt on the ship is that we're headed for a tropical island.
There's some scuttlebutt going around the office about a possible merger.

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.

I heard the latest water cooler talk about the changes in our department.
It's amazing how much you can learn just by joining in the water cooler conversations.

Examples of usage

Meet me by the scuttlebutt for a chat.
The sailors gathered around the scuttlebutt to get some water.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "scuttlebutt" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fofoca

🇮🇳 अफवाह

🇩🇪 Klüngel

🇮🇩 gosip

🇺🇦 плітка

🇵🇱 plotka

🇯🇵 噂 (うわさ)

🇫🇷 ragot

🇪🇸 chisme

🇹🇷 dedikodu

🇰🇷 소문

🇸🇦 إشاعة

🇨🇿 drb

🇸🇰 klebeta

🇨🇳 谣言

🇸🇮 opravljanje

🇮🇸 slúður

🇰🇿 өсек

🇬🇪 ჭორი

🇦🇿 şayiə

🇲🇽 chisme

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,870, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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38867 gleaner
38868 bilk
38869 bellying
38870 scuttlebutt
38871 rewire
38872 rehouse
38873 frangipani
...