The word "tattles" is spelled with two T's and two L's. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈtæt.əlz/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound, followed by a "t" consonant sound. The second syllable has a schwa sound followed by a "t" consonant sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a long "a" sound, followed by a voiced "l" consonant sound and a voiceless "z" consonant sound. This word means to gossip or spread rumors about someone.
Tattles, predominantly used as a verb, refers to the act of revealing or disclosing someone else's private or confidential information, secrets, or wrongdoing, often to someone in authority or as a means of gossip. It involves the act of sharing or spreading information about someone's actions or words without their knowledge or consent, usually with the intention of getting them into trouble or tarnishing their reputation. Tattling is often seen as a negative or undesirable behavior, typically associated with children or malicious individuals who derive satisfaction from causing harm or creating controversy.
The act of tattling can take place in various social contexts, such as in classrooms, workplaces, or social settings. Tattles can involve trivial matters or more serious issues, ranging from petty complaints to significant misbehavior. Individuals who engage in tattling may do so to gain attention or favor from authority figures, to secure their own position, or to disrupt relationships or group dynamics.
Tattles are often received with skepticism or caution due to the potential for exaggeration or manipulation of facts. However, sometimes tattling can serve a positive purpose, such as when it is utilized to protect someone from harm or prevent potential dangers. In such cases, it may be considered responsible behavior rather than mere tattling. Nonetheless, the term "tattles" typically carries a negative connotation, implying an act of betrayal or inappropriate disclosure.
The word "tattles" has its etymology rooted in the Middle English word "tattlen" or "tattelen", which meant "to prattle" or "to talk idly" around the 13th century. It derived from the Old Norse word "tatla", meaning "to prate" or "to chatter". Over time, "tattles" evolved into its current form, referring to idle gossip or rumour-mongering.