Gossipy

/ˈɡɑːsɪpi/ adjective

Definition

Inclined to gossip; full of gossip or rumors; characteristic of someone who enjoys spreading stories about others.

Etymology

From 'gossip' + '-y' suffix (Old English origin). The '-y' suffix turns nouns into adjectives meaning 'having the quality of' or 'full of,' as in 'rainy' and 'messy.'

Kelly Says

People love to label others as 'gossipy' but research shows almost everyone gossips about 15-20 minutes per day—it's not a character flaw but a deeply human social behavior.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Adjective form carries gendered judgment. Historically used to stigmatize women who shared information or engaged in social communication as unreliable or frivolous.

Inclusive Usage

Replace with precise descriptors: 'talkative', 'social', 'information-focused', 'rumor-based', or 'interpersonal.' Specify what behavior is being described.

Inclusive Alternatives

["talkative","social","information-focused","rumor-based"]

Related Words

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