Definition

Verb: * To reveal or disclose confidential information or secrets, often in an indiscreet, careless, or uncontrolled manner. It implies a lack of intention to keep the information secret at the moment of speaking.

Usage

The verb "babble out" is used to describe the act of unintentionally telling a secret. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting the speaker is not being careful or discreet. It is typically used with objects like "secret," "information," or "the truth."

Examples

• He babbled out the company's plans before the official announcement.
• Under gentle questioning, the child babbled out where the hidden cookies were.
• Be careful what you say around him; he tends to babble out everything he hears.

Advanced Usage

• The phrasal verb can sometimes be used in a passive construction, though this is less common.
  • The entire scheme was babbled out by an overconfident junior member.

Variants and Related Words

• Babble (verb): To talk rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. This is the root verb from which "babble out" is derived.
  • The excited tourist babbled about all the sights he had seen.
• Blab (verb): A close synonym meaning to reveal secrets carelessly or thoughtlessly.

Synonyms

• Blab
• Spill the beans
• Let the cat out of the bag
• Reveal
• Disclose
• Divulge

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Blurt out: To say something suddenly and without thinking, especially something secret or tactless. This is a very close synonym, emphasizing the sudden, impulsive nature of the revelation.
  • She blurted out the surprise party plans before she could stop herself.

Related Idioms

• Spill the beans: To reveal secret information unintentionally or indiscreetly.
  • Who spilled the beans about the merger?
• Let the cat out of the bag: To reveal a secret, often one that spoils a surprise.
  • I wanted it to be a gift, but my brother let the cat out of the bag.

Verb

1. divulge confidential information or secrets
   • Be careful--his secretary talks