Frank J. Wilstach, comp. A Dictionary of Similes. 1916.
Gossip
A gossip in a village is like a viper in a bed.
—Anonymous
Gossip, like ennui, is born of idleness.
—Ninon de L’Enclos
Gossipin’ about like a cracked bell-clapper.
—George Meredith
Gossip must often have been likened to the winged insects bearing pollen to the flowers; it fertilizes many a vacuous reverie.
—George Meredith