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Peddle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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peddle

[ˈpɛdəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

selling goods

To peddle means to sell goods or promote ideas in a persistent or aggressive manner, often on the street or door-to-door. Peddlers typically carry their goods with them as they travel from place to place, offering their merchandise to potential customers.

Synonyms

hawk, sell, vend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peddle

Typically used when someone is selling goods, often small or inexpensive items, by traveling from place to place. It can also have a negative connotation if used to imply someone is selling something untrustworthy or illegal.

  • She peddles handmade jewelry at local markets
  • The scammer was caught trying to peddle fake documents
sell

A general term used for the exchange of goods or services for money. It is neutral and versatile, suitable for both small-scale and large-scale transactions.

  • They sell fresh vegetables at the market
  • The company sells software to corporate clients
hawk

Often implies aggressively selling goods on the street or in a loud, forceful manner. This word can sometimes give a sense of urgency or hustle in the act of selling.

  • Street vendors hawk their wares to passersby
  • He spent the afternoon hawking newspapers on the corner
vend

Commonly used in the context of vending machines or in a more formal context when referring to selling goods, particularly in a stationary or automated manner.

  • The machine vends snacks and drinks
  • He has a license to vend at the festival

Examples of usage

  • He peddled his homemade jewelry on the boardwalk.
  • The street vendor peddled his wares to passersby.
  • She peddled her political beliefs to anyone who would listen.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • In medieval times, peddlers were important as they brought goods to rural areas that lacked access to shops.
  • Peddlers often served as a link between communities, spreading not just goods but also news and culture.
  • During the American Revolution, peddlers played a key role in circulating revolution-friendly materials and boosting morale.

Pop Culture

  • In literature, peddling appears frequently, often portraying a character who is resourceful and connected to various communities.
  • Movies sometimes depict peddlers as colorful characters who bring excitement, from street vendors to door-to-door salespeople.
  • The phrase 'peddling influence' can be found in media discussions around politics and lobbying, where it implies selling ideas rather than physical goods.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that people often have a hard time saying no to peddlers because of techniques that make offers sound appealing.
  • The act of peddling can create social pressure; the more persistent the salesperson, the more likely a person feels obligated to buy.
  • Behavioral economics explores how the presentation of products by peddlers can influence consumer decisions and perceptions of value.

Modern Usage

  • Today, 'peddling' can also refer to online sales tactics, as e-commerce has taken the concept of selling from physical streets to virtual ones.
  • The term can have negative connotations, particularly when discussing unethical selling practices or illegal activities.
  • Many small businesses and entrepreneurs still engage in peddling, showcasing handmade goods in local markets and festivals.

Origin of 'peddle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'peddle' comes from the Middle English 'pedler', meaning a seller or vendor.
  • Originally, 'peddler' referred to someone who traveled to sell goods, especially small items.
  • The word has roots in the Old English 'pæd', which means a basket, alluding to how sellers carried items to sell.

The word 'peddle' originates from the Middle Low German word 'petten', meaning 'to hawk or peddle'. The concept of peddling goods has been around for centuries, with peddlers playing a crucial role in the distribution of goods before the establishment of permanent stores. Over time, the word 'peddle' has evolved to encompass not only the selling of physical goods but also the promotion of ideas or beliefs.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,052 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.