Taradiddle / noun / tar·​a·​did·​dle

We use the word “taradiddle” as a noun with a two-part meaning in the English language. The first sense of the word “taradiddle” represents telling a lie or “fibbing.” We use the word “taradiddle” in the second sense to describe the information we believe to be “pretentious” or “nonsense.” In either sense of the word, “taradiddle” comes with a negative connotation when it’s used. We consider someone speaking “taradiddles” to be lying or making up untruths to impress other people. We do not consider this an acceptable behavior in polite society.

In a Sentence

It embarrassed the teacher when they caught him telling a taradiddle to his class.

She told several “taradiddles” to get the upper management job.

The politicians told their campaign donors one “taradiddle” after another.

Etymology

“Taradiddle” is one of the rare words we use in the English language whose origin remains unknown. Etymologists believe the word showed up in recorded language in the late 1700s around 1796. As far as we know, the definitions and meaning of the word “taradiddle” have not changed since their first introduction into the language in the 17th century.

Synonym

Fable, Lie

Antonym

Truth, Honesty