BROADSIDES Meaning and
Definition
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Broadsides are a form of printed publication that typically consist of a single large sheet of paper, printed on one side only. They were commonly used in the past as a means of disseminating news, announcements, or public notices to a wide audience. The term "broadside" originates from the early printing industry, where these sheets were printed on a press that allowed for large-scale, rapid production.
In terms of content, broadsides often contained a combination of informative, persuasive, or commercial messages, such as advertisements, proclamations, or political statements. Due to their large size and eye-catching layouts, they were particularly effective at capturing the attention of passersby. Broadsides were frequently displayed on public noticeboards, in shop windows, or distributed by hand in crowded areas to ensure broad dissemination.
Historically, broadsides played a significant role in shaping public opinion, as they were an accessible medium for spreading information to a wide range of social classes. They covered a diverse range of subjects, including news about wars, crimes, exhibitions, or public events, offering a snapshot of the social, cultural, and political landscape of a particular era.
In contemporary times, the term "broadsides" can also refer to a type of naval warfare, in which large-caliber cannons on the sides of a warship are used for firing broadside salvos at an enemy vessel. This naval tactic aims to inflict maximum damage on the target ship by simultaneously firing multiple cannons from one side of the attacking vessel.
Common Misspellings for BROADSIDES
Etymology of BROADSIDES
The word "broadsides" has its roots in the Old English language. It is a compound word, derived from two separate components:
1. "Broad": This word entered Old English from Old Norse "breiðr" meaning "wide" or "broad".
2. "Sides": This word is derived from Old English "sidu" meaning "flank" or "side".
When combined, the word "broadsides" referred to the wide sides or flanks of a ship. Over time, the term broadsides came to be associated with the simultaneous firing of all the cannons on one side of a warship, unleashing a powerful and concentrated attack. Eventually, it extended its meaning to include any fierce, forceful, or impactful verbal or written attack, leading to its use in describing criticism, publications, or even print advertisements.
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