divulge
UK: daɪˈvʌldʒ | US: daɪˈvʌldʒ
vt. to make known (private or sensitive information)
vt. to reveal something secret or confidential
divulge = di<apart, widely> + vulge<to spread>
- di (prefix): from Latin dis-, meaning "apart" or "widely."
- vulge (root): from Latin vulgare ("to make public"), derived from vulgus ("the common people").
Etymology Origin:
The word "divulge" traces back to Latin divulgare, combining dis- (indicating dispersion) and vulgare (to spread among the public). Originally, it referred to spreading information widely, often to the masses (vulgus). Over time, it narrowed to emphasize revealing secrets or private matters, reflecting a shift from neutral dissemination to potentially sensitive disclosure.
The journalist refused to divulge her sources.
He was accused of divulging classified documents.
Never divulge your password to anyone.
The company policy prohibits employees from divulging trade secrets.
She reluctantly divulged the truth under pressure.