Synonyms for

Rumors

Verb / ˈru:mɜ:z / Another word for rumors — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Rumors are stories or information that may not be true and are spread by word of mouth.

Synonyms & similar words

bruit rumour hearsay rumor gossip hearsay speculation talk whispers chatter buzz word-of-mouth tittle-tattle scuttlebutt grapevine rumbling murmurs stories tales legends myths fables anecdotes

Synonyms by register

Formal

reports accounts dispatches intelligence

Informal

gossip scuttlebutt buzz talk whispers

Literary

tidings whispers hearsay

Antonyms

facts certainties truths verities certainty proof evidence

Common collocations

  • spread rumors
  • hear rumors
  • rumors fly
  • rumors persist
  • rumors of war
  • rumors of scandal
  • rumors about him
  • rumors about her

Word family

noun rumor
verb rumor

Usage note

Rumor is a noun referring to unverified information. While 'rumor' is the standard spelling in American English, 'rumour' is common in British English. It often carries a negative connotation of unreliability.

Example sentences

  1. The rumors about the new teacher were not true.
  2. I heard a rumor that we're getting a new playground.
  3. Don't believe everything you hear. Rumors can be wrong.
  4. The rumors about the haunted house scared the children.
  5. The rumor mill at work was in full swing.

Quotes

  • A rumor without a leg to stand on will get around some other way.
  • A lie has speed, but truth has endurance.
  • A rumor goes in one ear and out of many mouths.

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