What does slattering mean?
Slattering describes conduct marked by careless talk, especially talk that reveals secrets or private information. A person who is slattering is indiscreet rather than merely animated or outspoken: the objectionable feature is the failure to protect confidential details or respect other people’s privacy. The word has a formal, often literary quality and normally conveys disapproval, making it more pointed than words such as chatty or talkative. It is often used to characterize servants, employees, courtiers, or other people expected to keep private information confidential. In “slattering about,” it can also refer more generally to speaking gossipily or without discretion. Although “slatter” can be used as a verb, “slattering” is most often encountered as a present-participle adjective or as the activity implied by that adjective. Its clear ethical force makes it especially useful when discussing breaches of trust, gossip, and the disclosure of confidential information.
adjectiveCarelessly disclosing secrets or private information, especially through indiscreet talk.
- Carelessly disclosing secrets or private information through indiscreet talk.
"The manager dismissed the slattering employee for repeating confidential details."
"Her slattering remarks about the investigation reached the newspaper."
"He was dismissed for slattering about details of the confidential agreement."
Slattering turns loose talk into a breach of trust: the danger lies not only in speaking carelessly but in revealing what should have remained private.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slattering come from?
The adjective is formed from the verb “slatter” with the present-participle ending -ing. “Slatter” has long been used for talking carelessly, gossiping, or revealing secrets, although the precise origin and early historical development of the verb are not certain enough to state confidently. No secure group of direct cognates can be supplied.
Related word forms
How slattering is actually used
The term is chiefly literary or formal and carries a strongly disapproving tone. It describes a habit or manner of talking rather than ordinary conversation.
Easily confused with slattering
Slattering means talking carelessly or revealing secrets, whereas slathering means spreading something over a surface in large amounts.