Tea
Gossip, the latest news, or the truth — 'spill the tea' means tell me everything.
Definitions
Tea is the goods — the gossip, the scoop, the truth somebody doesn't want out. 'Spilling the tea' is dishing it. Started as 'T' for truth in the Black ball scene of the 80s, then the whole world borrowed it. If someone leans in and says 'the tea is,' you stop talking and listen.
The main evening meal (as well as the drink).
In 'spill the tea,' an invitation to share what you know.
The plain truth or facts of a situation, as in 'that's the tea.'
Gossip or juicy information, especially about other people's business.
Tea In A Sentence
Origin & Usage
From Black and drag vernacular, where 'T' originally stood for truth (as quoted in The Queen's English and Paris Is Burning lineage). Mainstreamed through Drag Race and Gen Z.
People Also Ask
What does tea mean in slang?
It means gossip or the truth — 'spill the tea' asks someone to share the latest news. It comes from Black and drag vernacular.
What does spill the tea mean?
It means tell me the gossip or the full story. It's an invitation to share what you know.
Why is gossip called tea?
It traces to 'T' for truth in drag and Black slang, which evolved into 'tea' for gossip and facts alike.
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