Crier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฃ
crier
[หkraษชษr ]
Definition
public announcement
A crier is a person who makes public announcements, often in a loud voice. Historically, criers would announce important news, events, or information in public spaces. They played a vital role in communities before the advent of mass media.
Synonyms
announcer, barker, herald, proclaimer.
Examples of usage
- The town crier called everyone to the square.
- In medieval times, a crier would deliver news of royal decrees.
- A crier announced the arrival of the new law in the streets.
- During festivals, criers were often hired to attract crowds.
- The town crier wore a distinctive outfit to stand out.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The role of the crier dates back to ancient civilizations, where they announced news, laws, and royal decrees to the public.
- In medieval England, town criers were an essential part of community life, often dressed in distinctive outfits to stand out.
- The phrase 'Oyez! Oyez!' is traditionally used by criers to get people's attention before reading news.
Literature
- In literature, criers often symbolize the bearer of bad news or crucial information, representing the connection between authority and the public.
- Historic novels often feature criers to emphasize societal changes, encapsulating moments of revolution or important events.
- The character of a town crier can be seen in various adaptations of Shakespeareโs works, symbolizing the communication of urgent news.
Pop Culture
- The concept of the crier has been parodied in modern media, where characters humorously exaggerate their announcements.
- Pop culture references often depict criers as quirky characters, adding comedic value to their serious role.
- Films set in historical times frequently showcase town criers to establish authenticity in how news was spread before modern communication.
Communication
- In today's world, the role of the crier has evolved into that of reporters or news anchors who broadcast important information.
- Influences of new technology mean that with social media, everyone can be a 'crier', sharing news instantly to wide audiences.
- The traditional role of criers has influenced modern practices such as public announcements and emergency alerts, highlighting its importance in society.
Art
- Town criers have inspired many artworks and sculptures, symbolizing the importance of communication and community.
- Artistic representations often portray criers in dramatic poses to capture their role as the voice of the people.
- The image of a crier has appeared in various paintings throughout history to illustrate scenes of public gatherings and announcements.
Origin of 'crier'
The term 'crier' originates from the Old French 'crier', which means 'to shout' or 'to cry out'. This is derived from the Latin word 'creare', which signifies 'to make' or 'to create', reflecting the role of a crier as someone who brings forth news or information. The use of criers dates back to medieval times when they were essential in disseminating news throughout towns. As literacy rates were low, criers played a crucial role in ensuring that communities were informed about events, announcements, and changes in laws. The practice has evolved, and while town criers are less common today, they are often found in ceremonial contexts, serving as symbols of tradition and community.