What does rumor mean?
A rumor is an unconfirmed report about an event, statement, or situation. The word is commonly used when information is being repeated before it has been checked, and it often carries the implication that the report may be inaccurate, exaggerated, or merely gossip. People hear, start, spread, confirm, or refute rumors, making the word especially relevant in conversations about news, public opinion, and personal information. Although a rumor should not be treated as a fact, it can still shape what people think or how they behave. “Rumor” is the standard spelling in American English, while British English generally uses “rumour.” The verb use is less common but also established: a person or organization can rumor that something has happened.
A report or claim about something that has not been confirmed as true.
"The rumor about the surprise announcement turned out to be false."
Often used for information that is unverified and may be inaccurate or exaggerated.
To tell or pass on a report or claim, especially one that has not been confirmed.
"Several employees rumored that the company was considering layoffs."
Commonly used in the construction “rumor that” and often found in journalism and formal reporting.
The standard American spelling is “rumors”; British English usually uses “rumours.”
"The rumors disappeared as soon as the official statement was released."
A rumor can travel farther and faster than the evidence that would confirm it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rumor come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin rumor, meaning “noise,” “rumor,” or “public report.” Latin rumor could refer to widespread talk without necessarily implying that the reported matter was true. The English noun developed its modern sense of an unverified report, and the verb meaning “to tell or spread reports” is also recorded from the same historical line.
Related word forms
How rumor is actually used
In American English, “rumor” is the usual spelling; “rumour” is standard in British English. The word often suggests that the information is unconfirmed and may be unreliable, although it does not necessarily imply that it is false.
Easily confused with rumor
A rumor is a report about a particular matter or event, whereas gossip is broader talk about other people’s private lives and relationships.