Pronunciation: [dˈe͡ɪbɪl] (IPA) 
The word "daybill" is spelled as /ˈdeɪbɪl/. The first syllable, "day," is pronounced as "deɪ," which rhymes with "ray" or "may." The second syllable, "bill," is pronounced as "bɪl," which rhymes with "pill" or "fill." A daybill is a term used in the film industry to describe a type of movie poster that is tall and narrow. It is commonly used in Australia and New Zealand.
A daybill refers to a type of movie advertising poster that typically measures around 13 by 30 inches. This promotional material is specifically designed to catch the attention of moviegoers and attract them to the theatre. The term "daybill" originated in Australia and New Zealand in the early to mid-20th century, where it became a popular marketing tool in the film industry.
Daybills are characterized by their distinctive horizontal format, providing ample space for captivating artwork, bold typography, and important information about the film. They often feature prominent still images from the movie, along with the names of the cast and crew, release dates, and the film's title in eye-catching lettering. The artwork and design of daybills are carefully created to entice potential viewers and convey the genre, tone, and themes of the film.
These posters were primarily displayed in cinema lobbies, shopfront windows, and other locations where they could capture the attention of passersby. Due to their size, they were easily manageable and versatile for promotional purposes. Over time, daybills have become sought-after collectibles for movie enthusiasts and collectors, as they represent a piece of cinematic history and offer a glimpse into the advertising tactics employed during specific eras.
The daybill remains an iconic symbol of film promotion, depicting the essence of a movie in a visually appealing and concise manner, ultimately enticing people to experience the magic of the silver screen.
The word "daybill" does not have a clear etymology. It is a relatively recent term that is primarily used in the context of film posters. A daybill poster is a specific type of movie poster that is approximately 13.5 x 30 inches in size and typically used in countries like Australia and New Zealand.
The term "daybill" seems to be a combination of the words "day" and "billboard", emphasizing the poster's purpose of advertising a film for a specific day or time period. However, the exact origin and linguistic development of the term are not well-documented.
