grapevine
UK: ˈɡreɪpvaɪn | US: ˈɡreɪpvaɪn
n. 1. A climbing plant that bears grapes.
n. 2. An informal means of spreading information or gossip (metaphorical usage).
The word "grapevine" combines "grape" (from Old French "grape," meaning "bunch of grapes") and "vine" (from Latin "vīnea," meaning "vineyard" or "vine"). Literally, it refers to the plant that produces grapes. The metaphorical sense of "hearing through the grapevine" (unofficial gossip) originated in the mid-19th century, likely referencing the twisting, interconnected paths of vines as a metaphor for indirect communication.
The grapevine in our backyard produces sweet red grapes every summer.
I heard through the grapevine that the company is planning layoffs.
Farmers prune the grapevine to ensure a better harvest.
Rumors spread quickly along the office grapevine.
She learned about the surprise party via the neighborhood grapevine.