telling
UK: ˈtelɪŋ | US: ˈtelɪŋ
adj. revealing or significant
n. the act of narrating or informing
v. (present participle of "tell") conveying information
The word "telling" originates from the Old English "tellan," meaning "to count, recount, or narrate." The suffix "-ing" transforms the verb into a present participle or gerund, indicating an ongoing action or state. Over time, "telling" evolved to also describe something that reveals significance ("a telling detail"), emphasizing its dual role in communication and insight.
Her telling silence revealed more than words ever could.
He is good at telling stories to children.
The data provides a telling insight into consumer habits.
She avoided telling the truth about the incident.
The documentary’s most telling moment was the unedited interview.