peddle
UK: ˈpɛd(ə)l | US: ˈpɛd(ə)l
vt. to sell or promote goods, especially by traveling from place to place
vi. to engage in selling small items or spreading ideas persistently
peddle = ped<foot> + le<frequentative verb suffix>
- ped<foot>: From Latin pes (genitive pedis), meaning "foot," referencing the act of traveling on foot to sell goods.
- le<frequentative verb suffix>: A Middle English suffix indicating repeated or habitual action (e.g., "dazzle," "crackle").
Etymology Origin:
The word "peddle" emerged in the 16th century as a frequentative form of "ped" (foot), reflecting the historical practice of vendors walking door-to-door to sell wares. Over time, it broadened to include persistent promotion of ideas or trivial goods. The suffix "-le" reinforces the repetitive nature of the activity.
Street vendors peddle handmade crafts to tourists.
He peddled his conspiracy theories online.
In the 1800s, merchants peddled spices across Europe.
She refused to peddle gossip about her colleagues.
The company was accused of peddling substandard products.