Tout Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tout

[taÊŠt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

advertise publicly

To tout something means to advertise it or promote it publicly. This term is often used in the context of sales and marketing, where individuals or businesses extensively promote their products or services to attract customers. Touting can involve various strategies such as word-of-mouth, advertising campaigns, or public endorsements. It's essential in competitive markets to stand out through effective touting.

Synonyms

advertise, hype, praise, promote, publicize.

Examples of usage

  • They are touting their new product as the best in the industry.
  • The local restaurant is touting its new chef and menu.
  • Salespeople often tout the benefits of their products to attract buyers.
Context #2 | Noun

person who advertises

A tout can also refer to a person who promotes or solicits business, often in a somewhat aggressive manner. This usage of the word is typically associated with street vendors or individuals who try to convince others to buy tickets, goods, or services. Touts may use various tactics to persuade potential customers, including highlighting the benefits or unique qualities of what they're selling.

Synonyms

hustler, market seller, promoter, salesperson, vendor.

Examples of usage

  • The tout outside the concert was trying to sell tickets at a high price.
  • In the market, several touts were promoting their wares loudly.
  • Touts often work in busy areas to attract more customers.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In the film and music industries, some artists or agents are considered 'touts' for making big claims about upcoming projects.
  • Sports touting is common where fans or analysts promote certain teams or players as the next big stars.
  • In social media, influencers often tout products to encourage followers to purchase them, utilizing their popularity.

Business

  • Touting is a common marketing strategy where companies highlight the benefits of their products to attract customers.
  • Some businesses use touting to build brand reputation and loyalty by continuously promoting their offerings.
  • The effectiveness of touting can be analyzed through customer response rates and feedback.

Psychology

  • People may trust a product more if they hear someone enthusiastically touting its benefits due to social proof.
  • The concept of touting taps into the psychological principle of reciprocity, where a positive claim can prompt a purchasing action.
  • Research shows that when something is touted by multiple sources, it increases its perceived value.

Origin of 'tout'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tout' comes from the Old French word 'touter', which means to 'look out' or 'watch'.
  • In English, it began to mean promoting something in the 16th century, especially for selling.
  • Originally, 'tout' referred to a person who collects tips about races or events.

The word 'tout' originates from the Middle English word 'touten', which means 'to look out or listen carefully'. Initially used in the context of looking out for opportunities or prospects, the meaning evolved over time. It was first recorded in the late 15th century and was used to describe the action of seeking out or soliciting customers. The term has continued to be associated with aggressive marketing and promotion, particularly in modern contexts. In the 19th century, it became common in British English to refer to people who were trying to sell goods or services loudly or in a very noticeable manner. The usage of 'tout' as a verb to mean 'promote' can be traced back to the early 20th century, becoming prevalent in sales and advertising practices.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,933, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.