To accidentally or intentionally let liquid or other substances flow out from a container; or revelations of secrets.
From Old English 'spillan' meaning 'to destroy' or 'to kill', related to Old Norse 'spilla'. Over time, the meaning shifted to focus on the loss or discharge of contents.
The phrase 'spill the tea' (reveal secrets) is modern slang, but the metaphor of spilling secrets is centuries old—both involve something contained suddenly becoming exposed! In chemistry, chemical spills are measured by their environmental damage, making this word critical in safety discussions.
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