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Definitions

tip-off

[tip-awf, -of] / ˈtɪpˌɔf, -ˌɒf /
NOUN
hint, warning
Synonyms
STRONG
buzz clue cue dope forecast hint information inkling knowledge news pointer prediction prompt steer suggestion tip warning whisper word
WEAK
inside wire secret information two cents' worth word of advice word to the wise
VERB
advise; warn
Synonyms
STRONG
advise alert apprise brief caution counsel divulge expose familiarize forewarn hint notify suggest tip tout warn

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The birds noisily fight over their stolen feast, a potential tip-off to other scavengers.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

Redick said Friday he expected James could return against the Knicks, but he was ruled out shortly before tip-off.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 9, 2026

The 2008 report was carried out after the authority received a tip-off about four people who had lived there developing leukaemia.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

Kaddour-Cherif was arrested three days later in Finsbury Park after a tip-off from a member of the public.

From BBC • Jan. 9, 2026

You probably wouldn’t even want to change answers on every student’s test—another tip-off.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt