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tattle

 - 3 dictionary results

tat⋅tle

  [tat-l] verb, -tled, -tling, noun
Use tattle in a Sentence
–verb (used without object)
1. to let out secrets.
2. to chatter, prate, or gossip.
–verb (used with object)
3. to utter idly; disclose by gossiping.
–noun
4. the act of tattling.
5. idle talk; chatter; gossip.
Origin:
1475–85; < D tatelen; c. MLG tatelen

Related forms:
tat⋅tling⋅ly, adverb
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To tattle
tat·tle   (tāt'l)   
v.   tat·tled, tat·tling, tat·tles

v.   intr.

  1. To reveal the plans or activities of another; gossip. See Synonyms at gossip.

  2. To chatter aimlessly; prate.

v.   tr.
To reveal through gossiping.
n.  

  1. Aimless chatter; prattle.

  2. Gossip; talebearing.

  3. A tattletale.


[Middle English tatelen, to stammer, probably from Middle Dutch, of imitative origin.]
tat'tling·ly adv.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Word Origin & History

tattle 
1481, "to stammer, prattle," in Caxton's translation of "Reynard the Fox," probably from M.Flem. tatelen "to stutter," parallel to M.Du., M.L.G., E.Fris. tateren "to chatter, babble," possibly of imitative origin. The meaning "tell tales or secrets" is first recorded 1581. Sense influenced by tittle. Tattletale formed in Eng. 1888, probably patterned on telltale (1548).
Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2001 Douglas Harper
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