Gossiper

/ˈɡɑːsɪpər/ noun

Definition

A person who enjoys spreading rumors or talking idly about other people's private affairs.

Etymology

From gossip (to talk idly about others) + the suffix -er (forming agent nouns for people who perform an action), literally 'one who gossips.'

Kelly Says

Psychology research shows gossipers aren't always bad—gossiping actually helps maintain social bonds and transmit important community information, which is why every culture has had gossips since humans learned to talk, despite universally pretending to disapprove of them.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Historically, 'gossiper' was gendered female as a stigmatizing term. Language records show men who shared information were called 'informants' or 'keen observers,' while women doing the same were 'gossips' — a moral judgment.

Inclusive Usage

If describing information-sharing, use context-appropriate terms: 'source', 'informant', 'person who shares information.' Reserve 'gossiper' only when intent to spread unverified rumors is clear and applies regardless of gender.

Inclusive Alternatives

["source","informant","information-sharer","rumor-spreader"]

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