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Modern usage of the expression TO SPILL THE BEANS implies a clumsy indiscretion in revealing the outcome of an exercise or information that should have been kept secret.

The expression originated from the practice of Greek secret societies – the forerunners of today’s Greek Letter fraternities and sororities – method of recruiting members.  Depending on the level of strictness in a particular society, balloting would be held to determine if an applicant would be accepted for membership. Thus, either a few votes or even a single adverse vote would disqualify one from membership. Voters would drop white beans in a helmet or bottle to indicate a favorable vote, whereas a black or brown bean would express a negative vote. Only officials were supposed to know the outcome or the vote. On occasion, however, a clumsy voter would tip the container over, thus “spilling the beans” for all to see.