tittle-tattle

American  

[tit-l-tat-l] / ˈtɪt lˌtæt l /

noun

1. gossip or foolish chatter.

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verb (used without object)

tittle-tattled, tittle-tattling

1. to gossip or chatter.

tittle-tattle British  

noun

1. idle chat or gossip

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verb

1. (intr) to chatter or gossip

Other Word Forms

• tittle-tattler
  noun

Etymology

Origin of tittle-tattle

First recorded in 1520–30; gradational compound based on tittle to whisper, gossip

Explanation

School children often engage in tittle-tattle about their classmates, sharing rumors and gossip while socializing during lunch and recess. Tittle-tattle refers to light gossip or idle chatter. It can be used as a noun to describe the content of the gossip, and it can be used as a verb to describe the act of engaging in it. While usually harmless, too much tittle-tattle can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or the spread of minor rumors.

Example Sentences

In the island of Guernsey:— Eena, deena, dina, duss, Catalaweena, wina, wuss; Tittle, tattle, what a rattle, O-U-T spells out!

From Children's Rhymes, Children's Games, Children's Songs, Children's Stories A Book for Bairns and Big Folk by Ford, Robert