The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word BRUIT
B
R
U
I
T
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Rumour" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case rumour = bruit.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does BRUIT mean?
BRUIT noun- Hearsay, rumour; talk; an instance of this.
- A clamour, an outcry; a noise.
- To disseminate, promulgate, or spread news, a rumour, etc.
- An abnormal sound in the body heard on auscultation (for example, through using a stethoscope); a murmur.