Handbills: meaning, definitions and examples
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handbills
[ ˈhændˌbɪlz ]
advertising material
Handbills are small printed advertisements distributed to the public, often used to promote events, products, or services. They are typically designed to attract attention and convey information quickly and clearly. Handbills are an important form of grassroots marketing, especially in local communities.
Synonyms
brochures, flyers, pamphlets
Examples of usage
- The local theater handed out handbills for the upcoming play.
- She picked up several handbills for nearby restaurants.
- They posted handbills on community boards around town.
Etymology
The term 'handbill' is derived from the combination of 'hand', meaning 'to give or hold', and 'bill', which refers to a printed or written statement. The word has its origins in the early 17th century, where the practice of distributing printed materials became common in Europe. Handbills were used to communicate news, promote events, and advertise products before the widespread adoption of other forms of media. As printing technology advanced, the production of handbills became more efficient, leading to their increased prevalence in marketing strategies. Today, they remain a popular method of advertising, particularly for local businesses and events, due to their low cost and ability to reach specific audiences.