n. & v. (US rumor)
--n.
1. general talk or hearsay of doubtful accuracy.
2 (often foll. by of, or that + clause) a current but unverified statement or assertion (heard a rumour that you are leaving).
--v.tr. (usu. in passive) report by way of rumour (it is rumoured that you are leaving; you are rumoured to be leaving).
Etymology: ME f. OF rumur, rumor f. L rumor -oris noise