tells
|tell|
/tɛlz/
(tell)
communicate information
Etymology
'tell' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'tellan', where the root meant 'to count; to relate'.
'tell' changed from the Old English word 'tellan' (and related Proto-Germanic '*taljaną') and eventually became the modern English word 'tell' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'to count or reckon' and 'to recount/relate', but over time it evolved primarily into the modern sense 'to say, inform, or reveal'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
observable behavior or sign that gives away someone's thoughts or intentions (plural form 'tells'). Commonly used in poker and psychology.
Experienced players look for tells at the table.
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Verb 1
(singular subject +) utters words to convey information; informs or relates something to someone (3rd person singular present form of 'tell').
She tells the story in a lively way every summer.
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Verb 2
gives instructions or orders to someone (3rd person singular present form of 'tell').
He tells his assistants what to do during the meeting.
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Last updated: 2025/12/25 17:26