'rumor-spreading' originates from the Latin word 'rumor,' meaning 'noise' or 'report,' combined with the English word 'spread,' meaning 'to extend over a large area.'

'Rumor' changed from the Latin word 'rumor' to the Old French 'rumur,' and eventually became the modern English word 'rumor.' 'Spread' has remained relatively unchanged from Old English 'sprǣdan.'

Initially, 'rumor' meant 'noise' or 'report,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'unverified information.'