Pronunciation: [kˈɒstə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Coster" can be a bit confusing. The phonetic transcription in IPA would be /ˈkɒstə/. The "o" sound is short and pronounced as in "cot" while the "e" sound is pronounced as in "rest". The "r" sound is also important to pronounce correctly. It should be pronounced with a small roll in the back of the throat. So, if you're unsure of how to spell or pronounce "Coster", just remember the IPA transcription!
The term "coster" is an informal British slang that refers to a market trader or a street vendor. The word is derived from the word "costermonger," originally coined in the 16th century. A coster is typically involved in selling various items, such as fruits, vegetables, fish, or other goods, from a market stall or a mobile cart on the streets of towns or cities.
Coster vendors are often recognized for their distinctive and colorful attire, which is sometimes seen as a traditional aspect of their trade. They may wear a uniform or a distinctive hat and apron, signaling their role as costers. Additionally, their market stalls are known for displaying an assortment of goods, neatly arranged and attractively presented, in order to entice potential customers.
The term "coster" is generally associated with local street markets or bazaars, where a range of products are available at affordable prices. Costers often have a deep knowledge of the goods they sell, including their origin, quality, and seasonality. They also rely on their interpersonal skills to engage with customers and negotiate prices in a friendly and approachable manner.
The role of a coster has historical roots, originating from the 19th-century street vendors who sold goods primarily to working-class communities. Today, costers continue to play an important role in the local economy while contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of street markets across various British cities.
The word Coster is an abbreviation of the term costermonger, which originated in London, England. The etymology of costermonger is believed to come from the combination of two words: coster, meaning a tree trunk in Romani (the language of the Roma people), and monger, meaning seller or trader in Old English. The term costermonger was used to describe street vendors or hawkers who sold fruits, vegetables, and other small goods from wooden carts or stalls. Over time, coster became a colloquial term used specifically to refer to these street traders, which eventually led to the emergence of the shortened word Coster.
