Definition

Noun: A person who habitually engages in gossiping; someone who talks casually, often indiscreetly, about the personal lives and affairs of other people, frequently involving rumors or unverified information.

Usage

The word "gossiper" is a noun used to label a person based on their characteristic behavior. It is typically used in a negative or disapproving context to describe someone who spreads personal or private information about others. It can be used in both formal and informal English.

Examples

• She is known as the office gossiper; she always knows everyone's business.
• The neighborhood gossiper spread a false rumor about the new family.
• He didn't want to be seen as a gossiper, so he refused to discuss his colleague's personal problems.

Advanced Usage

• "An inveterate gossiper": This phrase emphasizes that the person is a confirmed, habitual gossiper.
  • She was an inveterate gossiper, unable to resist sharing any piece of news she heard.
• "A malicious gossiper": This specifies that the person spreads gossip with the intent to harm or damage reputations.
  • The story was spread by a malicious gossiper aiming to ruin his career.

Variants and Related Words

• Gossip (noun): 1) Casual talk about others, often involving details that are not confirmed as true. 2) A person who gossips (synonymous with "gossiper").
• Gossip (verb): To engage in gossip.
• Gossipy (adjective): Characterized by or fond of gossip (e.g., a conversation, a neighbor).

Synonyms

• Busybody: A meddlesome person who pries into others' affairs.
• Tattletale (often used for children): A person who reveals secrets or informs on others.
• Rumor-monger: A person who spreads rumors.
• Blabbermouth: A person who talks indiscreetly or too much.

Antonyms

• Confidant: A person entrusted with secrets or private affairs.
• Discreet person: Someone who is careful and prudent in their speech, especially concerning sensitive matters.

Idioms and Phrases

• To have a reputation as a gossiper: To be widely known for gossiping.
  • He had a reputation as a gossiper, so people were careful what they said around him.
• To be labeled a gossiper: To be categorized or identified by others as someone who gossips.
  • After spreading that story, she was quickly labeled the office gossiper.

Noun

1. a person given to gossiping and divulging personal information about others