Rumor is a gender-neutral name of American origin, meaning "Falsity." The name is associated with unverified information circulating among people without solid evidence. In social sciences, rumor is viewed as a statement whose truth is not quickly or ever confirmed, and has been identified as a subset of propaganda. Early research on rumor dates back to the pioneering work of German scholar William Stern in 1902, and subsequent studies have delved into the psychology and social cognition behind the transmission and reception of rumors. Rumors can reflect public desires, feared outcomes, or intentions to undermine group loyalty. They often undergo a process of leveling, sharpening, and assimilation as they are transmitted. In political communication and strategic communication, rumors play a significant role, often being used as low-cost, low-tech communication weapons to disrupt efforts of communication and outreach campaigns.