Telltale
(noun)
A sign or indication that reveals the presence or existence of something.
Origin:
Derived from middle english words meaning 'to tell' and 'tale'.
Examples:
- The dripping sound was a telltale of the leaky faucet in the bathroom.
- The telltale signs of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating.
- The redness and itching of the skin were telltale of an allergic reaction.
- The sudden drop in the stock price was a telltale of the company's financial problems.
- The strange behavior of the dog was a telltale of its illness.