Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who spreads malicious gossip: A scandalmonger is an individual who habitually spreads rumors or stories about other people's private lives, especially those that are damaging, sensational, or untrue.

Usage

• The word "scandalmonger" is used to describe a person whose behavior is considered harmful and unethical. It carries a strong negative connotation.
• It is typically used in formal or journalistic contexts to criticize someone who traffics in scandal.

Examples

• The journalist was accused of being a scandalmonger after publishing unverified claims about the celebrity's personal life.
• In the small town, everyone feared the local scandalmonger, who seemed to know and twist every piece of private information.
• The political debate was polluted by scandalmongers more interested in personal attacks than policy.

Advanced Usage

• "To act the scandalmonger": To behave like a person who spreads scandal.
  • He was not reporting news; he was simply acting the scandalmonger.

Variants and Related Words

• Scandalmongering (noun): The act or practice of spreading scandalous gossip.
  • The tabloid was known for its relentless scandalmongering.
• Scandal (noun): An action or event regarded as morally or legally wrong and causing general public outrage.
  • The financial scandal led to several resignations.

Synonyms

• Gossip: A person who likes talking about other people's private lives.
• Rumor-monger: A person who spreads rumors.
• Busybody: A meddling or prying person who interferes in others' affairs.

Antonyms

• Discreet person: Someone who is careful and prudent in their speech and actions, especially to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
• Confidant: A person with whom one shares a secret or private matter, trusting them not to repeat it.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To peddle scandal/gossip: To spread scandal or gossip, often for personal gain or attention. This phrase is conceptually similar to the behavior of a scandalmonger.
  • She made a career out of peddling scandal about the rich and famous.

Noun

1. a person who spreads malicious gossip