Newsboy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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newsboy
[ˈnjuːzˌbɔɪ ]
Definition
occupation
A newsboy is a young person, typically a boy, who sells newspapers on the street. Historically, newsboys would shout out the latest headlines to attract customers and sell their products. This role is often associated with the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in urban settings.
Synonyms
news vendor, paperboy.
Examples of usage
- The newsboy shouted the latest headlines to passersby.
- During the parade, a newsboy ran through the crowd selling newspapers.
- In the early 1900s, many newsboys worked long hours to support their families.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'newsboy' became popular in the late 19th century during the rise of the newspaper industry.
- Newsboys often had to buy their papers upfront and would sell them on the streets, creating a unique entrepreneurial role.
- The famous image of a newsboy selling papers likely originates from major cities like New York and London.
Labor History
- Newsboys were often from impoverished families and started working at a young age to help support their households.
- In the late 1800s, newsboys in the U.S. famously protested for better pay and working conditions, leading to notable strikes.
- The story of the newsboy's plight is depicted in popular culture, such as the musical 'Newsies', showcasing their struggle for fair treatment.
Pop Culture
- The image of a newsboy, typically wearing a cap and holding stacks of newspapers, is iconic in American visual culture.
- Newsboys have appeared in various film and television adaptations, often representing youthful perseverance and hustle.
- The phrase 'extra! extra!' became associated with newsboys shouting to sell newspapers, capturing the lively spirit of their trade.
Education
- The concept of young children working as newsboys raised social awareness about child labor laws and education opportunities.
- Today, newsboys symbolize historical employment for youth before stricter regulations were established in the labor market.
- Programs aimed at educating children in history often reference newsboys to discuss changes in labor rights and economic measures.
Literature
- Literature from the late 19th and early 20th centuries often featured newsboys as protagonists in urban settings, reflecting societal themes.
- Authors like Jack London depicted the lives of impoverished newsboys, highlighting struggles for survival in tough economic climates.
- The character of the newsboy in popular novels served as a metaphor for hope and resilience amid adversity.
Origin of 'newsboy'
The term 'newsboy' originated in the 19th century when newspapers became widely popular and were sold on the streets by young boys. This was a time before the internet and digital news, when physical newspapers were the primary means of information dissemination. Many boys took up the job as a way to earn money, as it did not require formal education and could be done after school hours. The newsboys were often recognized for their distinct caps, witty pitches, and their essential role in the local economy, particularly during significant events or holidays. Over time, the image of the newsboy became emblematic of urban life, especially in cities like New York. The rise of digital media has diminished the role of newsboys, but they remain a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era.