peddler
/'pedlə/ Cách viết khác : (peddler) /'pedlə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- An unlicensed dealer in illegal drugs: A person who sells illegal drugs without official authorization or license.
- A traveling seller of goods: Someone who travels from place to place, often on foot or with a small cart, selling small items, typically on streets or at public events like carnivals.
Examples of Usage
As an unlicensed drug dealer:
- The police arrested the peddler for selling narcotics on the corner.
- He was known in the neighborhood as a dangerous drug peddler.
As a traveling seller:
- The peddler carried his wares in a large pack on his back.
- We bought some handmade trinkets from a friendly peddler at the fair.
Advanced Usage
- "Peddler of [abstract concept]": Used metaphorically to describe someone who actively promotes or spreads ideas, rumors, or information, often with a negative connotation.
- He was dismissed as a mere peddler of conspiracy theories.
- The politician was accused of being a peddler of fear.
Variants and Related Words
Peddle (verb): To sell or offer goods for sale, especially by traveling from place to place. To promote or spread an idea or rumor.
- He peddles his artwork at local markets.
- She was accused of peddling lies about her opponent.
Pedlar (noun): An alternative, chiefly British, spelling of "peddler."
- Hawker (noun): A person who sells goods aggressively in public places; a synonym for a traveling seller.
Synonyms
- For a traveling seller: Hawker, vendor, street seller, huckster.
- For an illegal drug dealer: Drug dealer, pusher, trafficker.
Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)
- To peddle something: This is the verb form. While not a phrasal verb, it is the direct action related to a peddler.
- He tried to peddle his old bicycle online.
Related Idioms
- "Snake oil peddler": A derogatory term for someone who sells fraudulent goods or solutions, especially fake medicines or cure-alls. Originates from 19th-century traveling salesmen who sold "snake oil" as a miracle cure.
- Don't trust his investment advice; he's nothing but a snake oil peddler.
Noun
- an unlicensed dealer in illegal drugs
- someone who travels about selling his wares (as on the streets or at carnivals)