Definition of "telltale" in English

noun

1. One who divulges private information with intent to hurt others.

2. An indicator, such as a warning light, that serves to warn of a hazard or problem.

3. (figuratively) Something that serves to reveal something else.

   • The telltale was the lipstick on his shirt collar.

4. (music) A movable piece of ivory, lead, or other material, connected to the bellows of an organ, whose position indicates when the wind is exhausted.

5. (nautical) A length of yarn or ribbon attached to a sail or shroud etc to indicate the direction of the flow of the air relative to the boat.

6. (nautical) A mechanical attachment to the steering wheel, which, in the absence of a tiller, shows the position of the helm.

7. (nautical) A compass in the cabin of a vessel, usually placed where the captain can see it at all hours, and thus inform himself of the vessel's course.

8. (engineering) A machine or contrivance for indicating or recording something, particularly for keeping a check upon employees (factory hands, watchmen, drivers, etc.) by revealing to their employers what they have done or omitted.

9. A bird, the tattler.

10. A story or fable that has a moral or message.

adjective

1. Revealing something, especially something not intended to be known.

   • I noticed the snow was dirty, a telltale sign of recent human presence.
   • A telltale blush crept into her cheeks as he approached.