What Is Another Way to Say “Word of Mouth”?

Looking for synonyms for word of mouth? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say word of mouth.

  • Oral tradition
  • Verbal communication
  • Spoken word
  • Grapevine
  • Rumor
  • Gossip
  • Buzz
  • Hearsay
  • Scuttlebutt
  • Talk of the town
  • Street talk
  • Chatter
  • Tittle-tattle
  • Whispering campaign
  • Folklore

Want to learn how to say word of mouth professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Oral Tradition

Use ‘oral tradition’ to describe the passing of information, history, or stories from generation to generation through spoken word, often in a cultural context.
Example: “The company’s founding story is preserved and shared through oral tradition.”

2. Verbal Communication

‘Verbal communication’ refers to the sharing of information through spoken words, particularly in a personal or professional setting.
Example: “Employee training was conducted primarily through verbal communication.”

3. Spoken Word

Use ‘spoken word’ to describe information conveyed orally, in contrast to written communication.
Example: “Team updates are often given through spoken word during weekly meetings.”

4. Grapevine

‘Grapevine’ is an informal term for the unofficial channel of communication or gossip in a workplace.
Example: “News of the upcoming merger spread quickly through the office grapevine.”

5. Rumor

Use ‘rumor’ to describe unverified information that is spread through word of mouth, often lacking concrete evidence.
Example: “There’s a rumor going around about potential layoffs in our department.”

6. Gossip

‘Gossip’ refers to casual or unconstrained conversation often involving personal or sensational subjects, typically not based on facts.
Example: “The team leader discouraged gossip to maintain a positive work environment.”

7. Buzz

Use ‘buzz’ to describe the excitement or anticipation around a topic, typically spread through informal conversations.
Example: “There’s a lot of buzz in the industry about our upcoming product launch.”

8. Hearsay

‘Hearsay’ is information received from others that one cannot adequately substantiate; rumor.
Example: “The manager made it clear that decisions would not be based on hearsay.”

9. Scuttlebutt

Use ‘scuttlebutt’ as an informal term for rumor or gossip, particularly in a military or maritime context.
Example: “Scuttlebutt around the office is that there might be a significant policy change soon.”

10. Talk of the Town

‘Talk of the town’ is used for a topic that has aroused much discussion or gossip in a community or area.
Example: “Our company’s latest innovation has become the talk of the town.”

11. Street Talk

Use ‘street talk’ to refer to informal, colloquial conversation or gossip among the general public.
Example: “The marketing team keeps an ear to street talk to gauge consumer trends.”

12. Chatter

‘Chatter’ refers to informal talk or conversation, often about everyday matters or rumors.
Example: “The chatter among employees provided insights into overall morale.”

13. Tittle-tattle

Use ‘tittle-tattle’ for light, trivial gossip, typically of a personal or private nature.
Example: “I prefer not to engage in office tittle-tattle.”

14. Whispering Campaign

‘Whispering campaign’ describes a deliberate spreading of rumors or misinformation to influence opinion.
Example: “The competitors’ whispering campaign had little effect on our strong client relationships.”

15. Folklore

Use ‘folklore’ to describe traditional beliefs, customs, stories, and sayings of a community, passed through the generations by word of mouth.
Example: “The company’s history is rich in folklore, shaping its unique culture.”

Linda Brown