Tell-tale

A 'tell-tale' is a person or thing that reveals information, often something secret or undesirable, especially through an unintentional act or physical sign. It implies an act of revealing something, a disclosure of a secret or a piece of information that exposes something hidden or forbidden. The term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting betrayal or an unwelcome exposure. It can refer to a person who reveals secrets, or an object or sign that unintentionally discloses information. The 'tale' is usually of wrongdoing, the 'tell-tale' revealing the evidence.

Tell-tale meaning with examples

• The muddy footprints on the carpet were a tell-tale sign that someone had entered the house with dirty shoes, despite trying to hide their presence. This simple evidence exposed their carelessness and breach of the home's tidiness.
• Little Timmy was a tell-tale. Every time his siblings broke a rule, he'd run to their mother, eager to reveal their misdeeds. He couldn't resist the urge to disclose their forbidden games.
• The broken window was a tell-tale indication that a burglary had taken place. The damage provided visible proof of forced entry and the potential of missing valuables within.
• Her nervous fidgeting and averted gaze proved to be tell-tale signs of her guilt. Though she tried to deny her involvement, her body language spoke volumes, revealing her deception.