mouthpiece
UK: ˈmaʊθpiːs | US: ˈmaʊθpiːs
n. a part of a device or instrument that is placed in or near the mouth (e.g., of a musical instrument or breathing apparatus)
n. a person or publication that expresses the opinions of an organization or group
n. (slang) a lawyer, especially a defense attorney
The word "mouthpiece" originated in the late 16th century, combining "mouth" (Old English mūþ, meaning the oral cavity) and "piece" (Old French piece, meaning a part or segment). Initially, it referred literally to a part of an object placed in the mouth (e.g., a musical instrument). By the 18th century, it gained a figurative sense, describing a spokesperson or medium for communication, likening the person or publication to a conduit for speech, much like a literal mouthpiece channels sound.
The trumpet’s mouthpiece was polished to a shine.
The newspaper acted as a mouthpiece for the political party.
His lawyer, a sharp mouthpiece, secured his acquittal.
She cleaned the snorkel’s mouthpiece before diving.
The union’s mouthpiece criticized the new labor policies.