A person who enjoys talking about other people's private affairs, often spreading rumors or unverified stories.
From 'gossip' (Old English godsibb, meaning godparent) + agent suffix '-er'. The meaning evolved from a spiritual sponsor to a close friend, then to idle talk and rumors by the 18th century.
Medieval godparents were trusted confidants at baptisms, so 'gossips' were your closest friends—but over time, the word shifted to mean people who share secrets, creating today's negative association with rumor-mongers.
Variant spelling of 'gossiper,' carries identical gendered stigma and historical usage as the standard form.
Same as 'gossiper' — use context-appropriate alternatives when describing information-sharing or rumor-spreading.
["source","informant","information-sharer"]
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