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Definition of rumor

rumor

/ˈruːmɚ/
(UK: rumour)
ru · mor
Plural:rumors
•
Adjective:rumored
•
Past Simple:rumored
•
Past Participle:rumored
•
Present Participle:rumoring
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rumor Lexical Profile

rumor Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

American A currently circulating story or report of uncertain or doubtful truth.

Example

"A persistent rumor suggested that the company was planning to relocate its headquarters."

2

American The general circulation of unverified information or gossip among people.

Example

"Rumor has it that the historical theater will be restored next year."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

American To circulate or report as an unverified story or piece of gossip (usually used in the passive voice).

Example

"The acclaimed director is rumored to be working on a new documentary series."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for rumor
Antonyms
View all antonyms for rumor

Word Nuance & Usage

Spelled 'rumor' in American English and 'rumour' in British and Commonwealth English. As a verb, it is used almost exclusively in the passive voice (e.g., 'she is rumored to be leaving').

• Rhymes for rumor

• Nearby Words

rummage
rummy
rummynose tetra
rumor
rumorer
rumormonger
rumormongering

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'rumor', from Latin 'rumor', meaning 'noise, clamor, or common talk'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rumor. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rumor
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