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Peddler Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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peddler

[ˈpɛdlər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

street vendor

A peddler is a person who sells goods, typically on the street or door-to-door, without a permanent store.

Synonyms

hawker, seller, vendor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peddler

Typically refers to someone who sells goods in small quantities, often by traveling from place to place. Can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying the sale of cheap or dubious goods.

  • The peddler knocked on every door in the village, offering his wares.
  • Be wary of street peddlers who might overcharge for low-quality items.
vendor

Often used to describe someone who sells goods or services, usually at a specific location such as a market stall or an event. It has a neutral connotation and can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • Many vendors participated in the local craft fair.
  • The street vendor sold delicious hot dogs to passers-by.
hawker

Usually describes someone who aggressively sells goods, often loudly and in crowded public places such as markets or streets. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation due to the aggressive nature of selling.

  • The hawker's loud cries could be heard from blocks away.
  • Street hawkers sold snacks and souvenirs to tourists.
seller

A general term for anyone who sells goods or services. It is neutral and can be used in a wide variety of contexts, both formal and informal.

  • The seller offered a discount on bulk purchases.
  • Online sellers must provide accurate descriptions of their products.

Examples of usage

  • The peddler was selling homemade jewelry on the corner of the street.
  • The peddler walked through the neighborhood with a cart full of fruits and vegetables.
Context #2 | Noun

unauthorized seller

In some cases, a peddler refers to someone who sells goods without the proper authorization or license.

Synonyms

illegal vendor, unlicensed seller.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peddler

This term is typically used in a neutral or sometimes historical context to describe someone who travels and sells small goods or items, often by going door-to-door.

  • The peddler walked through the village, offering handmade crafts and trinkets
  • In the 1800s, peddlers were common, selling everything from spices to household items
unlicensed seller

This term refers to someone who sells items without a proper license or permit. It is neutral but can imply a lack of official regulation and potential legal issues.

  • Unlicensed sellers often provide cheaper goods since they don't pay for permits
  • Authorities issued warnings to unlicensed sellers operating at the festival
illegal vendor

This phrase is used to describe someone who sells goods or services without proper authorization or in violation of regulations. It carries a negative connotation and often implies a violation of the law.

  • The authorities cracked down on illegal vendors selling counterfeit merchandise on the street
  • During the market raid, many illegal vendors were fined for not having the necessary permits

Examples of usage

  • The police arrested the peddler for selling counterfeit goods on the sidewalk.
  • The city council cracked down on peddlers operating without permits.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Peddlers were common in medieval Europe, essential for distributing goods in rural areas where shops were few.
  • In colonial America, peddlers played a significant role in trade, often traveling long distances to bring news and products to isolated communities.

Pop Culture

  • Peddlers are depicted in many fairy tales, often as whimsical characters selling magical items.
  • The term pops up in songs and stories, symbolizing a free-spirited entrepreneur with a variety of goods.

Modern Usage

  • Today, 'peddler' can also refer negatively to someone selling illegal goods, highlighting the shift in meaning over time.
  • Street vendors or people who sell items online can be seen as modern-day peddlers in our current economy.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, peddlers are viewed as resourceful and important, bridging gaps in community services.
  • The image of a peddler varies worldwide, often reflecting local traditions, goods, and community needs.

Origin of 'peddler'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'pedlere', referring to someone who transports goods on foot.
  • Originating from the Old English 'pæd', meaning 'pack' or 'burden', it reflects the method of carrying goods.

The word 'peddler' originated in the 14th century, derived from the Middle English word 'pedlere', which in turn came from the Old French 'pedeble' meaning 'to tramp'. Peddlers have a long history of traveling from place to place selling goods, often providing essential items in areas without easy access to stores.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,476, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.