Grapevine

Origin

grape + vine

Full definition of grapevine

Noun

1. The plant, a vine of genus Vitis, on which grapes grow''Although many grape vines have geographical names, those rarely reflect their real origin, if known at all
2. A rumor
3. An informal person-to-person means of circulating information or gossip.I heard through the grapevine that Jim will be leaving soon.
4. (skating) A move in which the feet are alternately placed in front of each other, while both remaining on the ice or ground, incorporating half-turns.

Synonyms

• (informal person-to-person means of circulating information) bush telegraph, jungle telegraph, rumor mill

Derived terms

• grapevine knot
• grapevine moth
• grapevine weevil
• hear something through the grapevine