telltale

Definition

One who divulges private information with intent to hurt others.

Etymology

From tell + tale, perhaps dissimilated from earlier taleteller, from Middle English tale tellere (literally “tale teller”).

Example Sentences

• "Your husband is at hand; I heare his Trumpet, / We are not tell-tales, Madam; feare you not."
• "There were some ill-natured people —tell-tales—it seemed, in Tamai; and hence there was a deal of mystery about getting up the dance."
• "Louis tells me that the gossip of the sailors finds its way aft, and that two of the telltales have been badly beaten by their mates."