tale
UK: teɪl | US: teɪl
n. a narrative or story, often fictional or imaginative
n. a false or exaggerated account; a rumor
tale = tal<to count, to tell> + e<silent suffix>
- tal (from Old English talu, meaning "to count, to tell")
- e (a silent suffix in Modern English, no standalone meaning)
Etymology Origin:
The word "tale" originates from Old English talu, which meant "account, story, or enumeration." It is related to the verb "tell," both sharing the Proto-Germanic root talō ("to count, to recount"). Over time, "tale" narrowed in meaning to focus on narratives, especially fictional or imaginative ones, while retaining connotations of oral tradition. The silent "e" is a vestige of Middle English spelling conventions.
She told a fascinating tale about her adventures in the jungle.
The children gathered around to listen to a fairy tale before bed.
His excuse sounded like a tall tale to avoid responsibility.
The ancient manuscript contained tales of heroic deeds.
Don’t believe everything you hear—it might just be a tale.