Tout
Verb
Definition: To solicit customers, votes, or patronage aggressively or persistently.
Synonyms: Promote, Advertise, Market
Antonyms: Discourage, Dissuade
- He stood on the street corner, touting his latest product.
- The politician was touting his achievements during the rally.
- Think of a street vendor enthusiastically promoting their goods.
Noun
Definition: A person who touts, especially one who solicits customers, votes, or patronage persistently or aggressively.
Synonyms: Promoter, Advertiser, Marketer
Antonyms: Critic, Detractor
- The tout outside the theatre offered discounted tickets.
- Imagine a persistent salesperson trying to get you to buy something.
Etymology:
The word "tout" originated from the Middle English word "tuten" which means "to peep" or "to look out". It has evolved over time to mean "to solicit" in its modern usage.
Historical Usage:The word "tout" has been used to describe the action of promoting or advertising something persistently or aggressively since the 14th century.
Related Idioms:
"Tout one's own horn"
Explanation:To boast or promote one's abilities or achievements.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "tout" with "taut".
Explanation:"Tout" refers to aggressively promoting or soliciting, while "taut" means pulled or stretched tight. They have different spellings and pronunciations.