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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

After six hours of waiting in the cold and night falling, it seemed like the tip-off was wrong.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

The suspect was arrested after a tip-off from the CIA before Swift's concert.

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

All-City forward Araceli Gonzalez, one of nine Granada Hills seniors honored before tip-off, scored 14 of her team’s first 21 points but was held to four points in the second half.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2026

He walked to the center tip-off circle and dribbled the ball four times.

From "Millionaires for the Month" by Stacey McAnulty

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.