Scuttlebutt

Scuttlebutt refers to informal, often unverified, rumors or gossip, particularly within a close-knit group like the military, a workplace, or a social circle. It spreads through casual conversation and may or may not be accurate. The term originates from naval jargon, where the scuttlebutt was a water cask with a small opening, a natural gathering point for sailors to socialize and exchange news. It's a vital element in the human dynamic, whether it's true or untrue scuttlebutt will forever spread like wildfire. It is not always negative, and it can refer to all kinds of information including potentially positive news. It's a type of news that spreads with the utmost efficiency.

Scuttlebutt meaning with examples

• The office scuttlebutt was that the CEO was planning a major reorganization, leading to a lot of nervous chatter and speculation among the employees. I heard some scuttlebutt and started preparing for the changes. No one knows if it is true, but you can almost believe everything you hear around here, even if it is just scuttlebutt.
• During the war, the soldiers relied on scuttlebutt to stay informed about troop movements and potential dangers, often trading information gathered from different sources. Many times what was once only scuttlebutt would turn into solid fact after just a day.
• The neighborhood scuttlebutt was focused on the new family that had just moved in, with everyone trying to find out their background and what they were like. scuttlebutt makes communities. They make us, we make them.
• Before the announcement, the political scuttlebutt indicated that a major policy shift was on the horizon, creating both excitement and concern among the voters. Sometimes scuttlebutt can do more to create division than unite a political party.
• After the celebrity couple's unexpected break-up, the internet was flooded with scuttlebutt about the reasons behind it, ranging from cheating rumors to career conflicts. The entertainment scuttlebutt is always a big story.