Tuscheln

Tuscheln is a German verb meaning to speak in hushed voices, to whisper, or to exchange confidential or speculative information in a conspiratorial manner. It is often used to describe informal communication behind someone’s back or in a manner intended to avoid overt attention. The related noun die Tuschelerei (also die Tuschelei) refers to the act of whispering, gossip, or a whispering campaign, in which rumors or unconfirmed information are spread covertly.

In usage, tuscheln carries a negative connotation when it implies spreading rumors or discussing others behind their backs, but it can be neutral when merely describing quiet conversation among close associates. It is commonly found in journalism, literature, and everyday speech. The verb can be used in various tenses and is typically paired with haben to form the perfect: er hat getuschelt.

Examples: Sie tuscheln miteinander, während der Raum leise belauscht wird. Die Zuschauer tuschelten über den Redner, der die Bühne betrat. In politics and media, the term is often used to describe a social mechanism of information control via rumor rather than formal channels.

See also: flüstern, tratschen, Gerücht, Gerüchte verbreiten.

Note on etymology: The verb is believed to be related to the sound of a quiet whisper, sometimes linked to the onomatopoeic "Tusch" or to older German terms for secretive talk. The exact origin is uncertain.