What is another word for rumour-mill?
Pronunciation: [ɹˈuːməmˈɪl] (IPA) 
Rumour-mill is a word that is used to describe a process where stories or information are spread unofficially, generally in a negative way. Synonyms for this word include grapevine, gossip network, rumour circle, scuttlebutt and Chinese whispers. A grapevine is a network of informal communication channels, typically used for spreading rumours and gossip. A gossip network is similar to a grapevine, where information is spread in a rapid and informal manner. Rumour circle refers to a group of people who regularly spread rumours. Scuttlebutt is a nautical term used to describe a process of spreading rumours on a ship. Chinese whispers is a children's game that involves passing a message from person to person, which often gets distorted in the process.
