Meaning & Definition of word "Tale"
Tale
/teɪl/
noun:
- 1. A narrative that is imagined or invented; a story, especially one of a fictitious or exaggerated nature.
- Example: The old man told a fantastical tale about a dragon that lived in the mountains.
- 2. A story that is often passed down orally and may carry moral or cultural significance.
- Example: She recounted the familiar tale of Cinderella to her children.
- 3. A report or account of an event or incident, especially one that may not be entirely accurate.
- Example: He spun a tale about his adventures while traveling through Europe, which made all his friends jealous.
- 4. A false report or lie.
- Example: His tale about winning the lottery was quickly dismissed as a mere fabrication.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old English 'talu', akin to German 'Zahl', meaning story or telling.
Common Phrases and Expressions
tale as old as time:
A story that has been told for a very long time.
tall tale:
An exaggerated, improbable story.
Related Words
story:
A narrative of real or fictional events.
fable:
A short story typically with a moral lesson.
legend:
A traditional story sometimes regarded as historical but unverifiable.
Slang Meanings of tale
Meaning: A tall tale
● Example Sentence: He's always telling tall tales about his adventures.
Meaning: A sob story
● Example Sentence: Don’t give me that sob story; I know you're fine.