Sellout Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sellout
[ˈsɛl.aʊt ]
Definitions
commercial compromise
A sellout is a person or entity that compromises their integrity, often for financial gain or popularity. The term is frequently used in contexts where someone abandons their original principles or values to achieve success or acceptance. This can occur in various fields, including music, sports, politics, and business. The concept carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the individual is willing to betray their original ideals to appeal to a broader audience.
Synonyms
apostate, defector, traitor, turncoat.
Examples of usage
- The musician was criticized for being a sellout after signing with a major label.
- Some fans thought the band's new album was a sellout compared to their earlier work.
- After changing his stance on key issues, many began to see the politician as a sellout.
event
A sellout can also refer to an event where all tickets have been sold, indicating high demand and popularity. This term is often used in the context of concerts, games, or other entertainment events. When an event sells out, it means that no more tickets are available for purchase, denoting either great success or a limited capacity.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The concert was a sellout, drawing fans from all over the country.
- The championship game was a sellout, with tickets selling out within minutes.
- This year's festival is expected to be a sellout, due to the lineup of popular artists.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- A famous example is when musicians or artists are accused of becoming 'sellouts' after endorsing brands that conflict with their original image.
- In film and literature, characters often face the dilemma of being true to themselves or succumbing to the lure of fame and fortune, highlighting the moral conflict of being a sellout.
Psychology
- The concept can be linked to cognitive dissonance, where individuals experience discomfort when their beliefs conflict with their actions, such as choosing profit over principle.
- People may rationalize their actions as necessary for success, often leading to a shift in identity that can impact self-esteem and relationships.
Business
- In the business world, a 'sellout' can refer to a company that compromises its values, like environmental sustainability, for profit.
- Consumers often react strongly against brands they perceive as sellouts, leading to movements promoting ethical consumption and corporate responsibility.
Music
- In music, the term is frequently debated among fans regarding beloved bands that start to commercialize their sound to reach a broader audience.
- Notable examples include bands that transitioned from indie to major labels, often facing backlash from initial fan bases.
Origin of 'sellout'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'sellout' originated in the United States in the 1950s, originally referring to a concert with no tickets left.
- Over time, 'sellout' evolved to describe individuals who compromise their principles or what they stand for for personal gain.
The term 'sellout' originated in the mid-20th century, gaining prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The word combines 'sell' with 'out', where 'sell' signifies the act of relinquishing something for monetary gain, and 'out' implies the act of completely abandoning original principles. Initially used in artistic circles to describe musicians and artists who compromised their values for fame or financial success, the term quickly spread to other realms, including politics and business. Over time, 'sellout' has transformed from a term strictly tied to artistic integrity to a broader critique of authenticity in various industries. Its usage has persisted, often reflecting public sentiment regarding transparency and the ethical implications of choices made by influential figures.