Shilled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💰
shilled
[ʃɪld ]
Definition
promotional activity
To 'shill' typically means to promote or endorse a product or service, often in a deceptive or dishonest manner. The term originated from the world of gambling, where 'shills' would encourage bets on a game, often with the intent to deceive unsuspecting players. Nowadays, shilling is often associated with advertising in a way that disguises the promotional intent. It is commonly seen in online marketing, especially in contexts such as social media and cryptocurrency, where individuals may endorse projects without disclosing their financial interests.
Synonyms
deceive, endorse, fleece, promote.
Examples of usage
- Many influencers shilled products without disclosing sponsorship.
- He was accused of shilling a cryptocurrency to drive up its price.
- The actress shilled for a beauty brand in her latest campaign.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The practice of shilling is often depicted in movies and TV shows, showcasing characters who promote products to unsuspecting buyers.
- In contemporary marketing, particularly online, individuals known as 'influencers' sometimes face accusations of shilling if they promote products they don't genuinely endorse.
Marketing
- Shilling is often used to boost sales of products during a new launch, utilizing fake customer testimonials to create artificial popularity.
- Many companies conduct 'shill reviews' to inflate the perceived value of their products on platforms like Amazon or Yelp.
Legal Considerations
- Shilling can veer into illegal territory when it involves deceptive marketing practices, leading to lawsuits or regulatory actions by authorities.
- Advertising regulations often require disclosure if a person is being compensated to endorse a product to combat misleading practices.
Psychology
- The mechanics behind shilling tap into the psychological principle of social proof, where people are influenced by the actions or words of others.
- Consumers are often more likely to trust a product if they see others (even if they're paid to act) enthusiastically endorsing it.
Origin of 'shilled'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the early 1900s, derived from 'shill,' a slang term for a con artist who helps to attract customers.
- It is believed to have roots in the carnival and sideshow environments where performers would recruit others to engage the audience.
The term 'shill' has its roots in the American gambling scene of the late 19th century. Originally, it referred to a person who assists a fraudster by pretending to be a legitimate customer, aiming to draw in unsuspecting bets. The word likely derives from 'shilling', a British coin, which was sometimes used in scams to signify the act of betting or participating in fraud. Over time, the meaning of 'shill' broadened to encompass deceitful promotion in various contexts, particularly in commercial enterprises. In modern usage, particularly with the rise of the internet, 'shilling' can be seen in the behavior of certain influencers and marketers who endorse products or services without transparent disclosure, thereby manipulating their audience for monetary gain. The term often carries a negative connotation, signifying a lack of integrity in promotional activities.