blab
UK[blæb]US[blæb]
v
To talk foolishly, indiscreetly, or excessively; to reveal secrets by talking.
n
Foolish or indiscreet talk; chatter.
Etymology
The word 'blab' is a classic example of onomatopoeia, a word formed by imitation of a sound. It emerged in Middle English as 'blabben', likely echoing the repetitive, percussive sound of lips moving in rapid, thoughtless speech. This imitative origin is shared with similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Middle Dutch 'blabben'. The semantic logic is direct and sensory: the sound of the word itself mimics the act it describes—incessant, empty chatter or the act of thoughtlessly revealing information. Over centuries, it evolved from a general term for chatter to one more specifically associated with foolish talk or the betrayal of secrets.
Analysis
This word is an onomatopoeic simplex. It is not productively formed from distinct, separable morphemes in modern English. Its form imitates the sound of idle, repetitive speech.
Examples
He tends to blab about company plans after a few drinks.
I told her in confidence, but she went and blabbed it to everyone.
The meeting was just a lot of blab with no concrete decisions.