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spill

overflow / leak / reveal / fall / accident
Transitive VerbIntransitive VerbNoun
past: spilledpp: spilleding: spilling

This word evokes a sense of sudden, uncontrolled movement, typically associated with clumsiness or a loss of containment. When used physically, it suggests a messy transition from a controlled state inside a vessel to an uncontrolled state on a surface. In a social context, the term shifts from physical liquids to information. The act of revealing a secret is framed as an accidental or impulsive leak, mirroring the way a liquid escapes a container once the seal is broken.

Meanings

Transitive Verb
[~ something]

To cause a liquid or a granular substance to flow over the edge of its container, usually by accident.

"He accidentally spilled coffee all over his new white shirt."

Intransitive Verb
[~]

To flow or pour over the edge of a container, often unintentionally.

"The water spilled over the side of the tub and soaked the floor."

Transitive Verb
[~ something to someone]

To reveal a secret or private information, often prematurely or indiscreetly.

"She finally decided to spill the beans about the surprise party."

Transitive Verb
[~ someone]

To cause someone to fall from a horse or a bicycle.

"The sudden jump of the horse spilled the rider into the dirt."

Noun

A quantity of liquid or a substance that has been accidentally flowed or leaked from a container.

"The crew worked quickly to clean up the oil spill in the harbor."

Noun

An instance of accidentally knocking over a container of liquid.

"The toddler had a spill with his juice box during lunch."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 12, 2026Report an Error