Vocabulary word Peddle - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

ACT 16 (American College Testing)

Learning activities:

Business and Commerce

Learning activities:

Effort and Exertion

Learning activities:

Dictionary Definition of peddle

To sell or promote goods, typically in a persistent or sometimes aggressive manner, often while moving from place to place.
"The scam artist would peddle fake designer handbags to unsuspecting customers."

Detailed Meaning of Peddle

When someone 'peddles' products, they usually do so informally, without a fixed retail location, and may go door-to-door or approach potential customers on the street. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe the promotion or dissemination of ideas, beliefs, or services in a persistent or sometimes pushy manner. While 'peddle' doesn't necessarily imply dishonesty, it can carry connotations of a salesperson pushing products or ideas, sometimes with an intention to deceive or exploit.

Example Sentences for Peddle

1. The street vendor tried to peddle his wares to passersby.
2. She decided to peddle handmade jewelry at the local craft fair.
3. The door-to-door salesman attempted to peddle his vacuum cleaners to homeowners.
4. He would often peddle his artwork in the park, hoping to make a sale.
5. They set up a small stall to peddle their organic produce at the farmers' market.
6. The musician would peddle their CDs after their live performances.

Origin and Etymology of Peddle

The verb 'peddle' traces its origins back to the Middle English word 'pedlen,' which meant 'to sell wares or goods.' It is believed to have been influenced by the Old French word 'pedaler,' which also meant 'to sell.' Over time, the word 'peddle' evolved to refer specifically to the act of selling goods, often by traveling from one place to another. Peddlers, historically, were individuals who would carry their merchandise and travel from town to town, offering their wares to local residents. 'Peddle' retains its connotation of selling goods, sometimes with the implication of persistent or assertive sales tactics, making it a word associated with salesmanship and the marketing of products.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb peddle:

buy

purchase

acquire

hawk

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Peddle

1. The online marketplace provided a platform for artists to peddle their creations.
2. The street performer would peddle their talents for spare change.
3. The entrepreneur aimed to peddle their innovative product to potential investors.
4. The illegal street vendor would peddle counterfeit merchandise to tourists.
5. She started her own business to peddle handmade soaps and beauty products.
6. The telemarketer attempted to peddle their products over the phone.
7. He would peddle his homemade baked goods at local events and festivals.
8. The influencer used social media to peddle sponsored products to their followers.
9. The car salesman would peddle various models and brands to prospective buyers.
10. The con artist would peddle their sob story to unsuspecting victims in order to swindle them.
11. They would peddle conspiracy theories to attract attention and followers.
12. The charity organization would peddle their cause to potential donors.
13. The street magician would peddle their tricks and illusions to captivate audiences.
14. Street vendors peddle their wares in bustling city markets.
15. She used to peddle homemade jewelry at local craft fairs.
16. Door-to-door salesmen peddle vacuum cleaners in suburban neighborhoods.
17. Some online retailers peddle counterfeit products to unsuspecting customers.
18. Traveling salespeople peddle their merchandise across the country.
19. In tourist destinations, hawkers peddle souvenirs to eager visitors.
20. He tried to peddle his idea to investors at a business conference.
21. Scammers often peddle get-rich-quick schemes on the internet.
22. Hawkers peddle delicious street food from their mobile carts.
23. Sales representatives peddle insurance policies to potential clients.
24. Unauthorized street vendors peddle pirated DVDs in crowded areas.