Spill the tea
/spɪl ðə tiː/slangUK · US
What does “Spill the tea” mean?
Spill the tea means to share gossip or interesting private details
“Spill the tea” invites someone to tell you the interesting details. The speaker usually expects a story about people, relationships or a small drama.
It has a playful, gossip-hungry tone. It is not a good fit for a serious request to report confidential information at work.
When do people say it?
Use it in playful, very informal conversation when asking for gossip or telling a revealing story.
“You met his new partner? Come on, spill the tea!”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: slang. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
“Tea” is slang for gossip or revealing information. Spilling it means sharing it with other people.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Spill the tea” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Spill the beans, To give away a secret.
Last updated 2026-09-19