bruit
UK: bruːt | US: bruːt
vt. to spread news, a rumor, or a report widely
n. (Archaic) a rumor or report
bruit = bru<noise> + it<noun suffix>
- bru (from Old French bruit, meaning "noise, rumor," derived from Vulgar Latin brugitus, a blend of Latin rugitus "roaring" and bremare "to roar")
- it (a noun-forming suffix in Old French, often indicating an abstract concept or result)
Etymology Origin:
The word bruit entered English in the 15th century from Old French, where it originally meant "noise" or "commotion." Over time, its meaning narrowed to focus on the dissemination of rumors or reports. The Latin roots rugitus (roaring) and bremare (to roar) suggest a vivid connection to loud, spreading sounds—mirroring how rumors "echo" through communities.
The scandal was bruited about in all the newspapers.
He bruited the false claim to damage his rival’s reputation.
Medieval heralds would bruit news of victories across the kingdom.
The bruit of war spread fear through the village.
She ignored the bruited gossip about her personal life.