What is the Navy term for a "rumor" or "waterfountain"?

The term "scuttlebutt" has a specific historical context and is widely accepted within the Navy and other branches of the military to refer to rumors or informal gossip circulating among personnel. The origin of the term comes from the scuttlebutt, a cask used to hold drinking water on ships, where sailors would gather to drink and often share news, opinions, and rumors. This practice of informal communication at the water cooler or gathering spot parallels the modern concept of a "water fountain" where casual discussions occur.

This understanding of "scuttlebutt" distinguishes it from the other options. While chit-chat, gossip, and whispers describe various forms of informal communication, none carry the same specific connotation or military context as scuttlebutt does. In military jargon, scuttlebutt effectively captures the essence of sailors exchanging information, hence its prominence in Navy vernacular.