Spill the beans

Meaning

Reveal a secret or disclose information prematurely.

Usage

Common in informal speech; often used to playfully scold someone for letting news slip.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

The origin is uncertain. A popular story about ancient Greek voting beans is unproven.

Recorded in American English from the early 20th century.