talebearer

[ teyl-bair-er ]

noun

1. a person who spreads gossip, secrets, etc., that may cause trouble or harm.

Other Words From

• talebearing adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of talebearer¹

First recorded in 1470–80; tale + bearer

Example Sentences

“A talebearer revealeth secrets,” says Proverbs in an early complaint, “but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter.”

From New York Times

And so whether the tale be long, or short, pointed or not, every man for a small sum, in some instances a very small sum, can be his own talebearer: only the tale isn't his, it is somebody else's, but his by purchase.

From Project Gutenberg

"Go and tell her, little talebearer," snarled Giles.

From Project Gutenberg

Charlotte wondered too, and said that those who repeated such scandal were quite as bad as the originators, a remark in which Mrs. Bartow fully concurred, saying, "if there was anything she despised it was a talebearer."

From Project Gutenberg

On the other hand, I abhor a talebearer.

From Project Gutenberg