talebearer
One who blabs
A talebearer is someone who spreads gossip or reveals secrets that were shared in confidence.
The word carries a distinctly negative connotation, suggesting not just idle chatter but malicious intent to stir up trouble or damage reputations.
The office talebearer made sure everyone knew about the manager's mistake.
Though somewhat old-fashioned, talebearer remains useful for describing someone whose gossip causes real harm rather than mere annoyance.
One who tells authorities
- informerOne who reveals secrets
- ratRodent or informer
- squealerOne who betrays secrets
- finkContemptible informer
nark · stoolie · tipster · betrayer · tattler · canary · turncoat · traitor
One who informs on others
- blabbermouthOne who reveals secrets
- gossipmongerHabitual spreader of rumors
- busybodyIntrusive meddler
- rumormongerOne who spreads unverified talk
scandalmonger · yenta · tittle-tattle · telltale · newsmonger · muckraker · chatterbox · prattler
Unverified secondhand information
- scuttlebuttInformal rumor or speculation
- speculationUnproven theorizing or risky investment
- innuendoOblique disparaging remark
- gossipInformal talk spreading rumors
slander · defamation · calumny · aspersion · smear · libel · canard · misinformation
snitch
One who tells authorities
fink · nark · stoolie · tipster · betrayer · tattler · canary · turncoat · traitor · leak
tattletale
One who informs on others
- blabbermouthOne who reveals secrets
- gossipmongerHabitual spreader of rumors
- busybodyIntrusive meddler
rumormonger · scandalmonger · yenta · tittle-tattle · telltale · newsmonger · muckraker · chatterbox · prattler · babbler
hearsay
Unverified secondhand information
- scuttlebuttInformal rumor or speculation
- speculationUnproven theorizing or risky investment
- innuendoOblique disparaging remark
gossip · slander · defamation · calumny · aspersion · smear · libel · canard · misinformation · fabrication
confidential
Meant to stay secret
undertone · private · discreet · furtive · clandestine · covert · eavesdrop · overhear · earful · murmur
- blabbermouthsblabbermouth, gossipmonger, rumormonger, scandalmonger, tattletale
- Informerssnitch, informer, informant, fink, squealer
talebearerconfidant
Trusted keeper of secrets
vault · confessor · confidante · discrete · trustee
talebearerloyal friend
Devoted, reliable companion
protector · defender · ally · true friend · supporter