LEGMAN Meaning and
Definition
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Legman is a noun that refers to a newspaper journalist or reporter, primarily one who collects information by conducting interviews or engaging in fieldwork. The term originated in the early 20th century and is commonly associated with the news industry.
A legman's main responsibility is to gather news, conduct research, or obtain specific information by personally visiting locations, events, or people. This often involves attending press conferences, interviewing witnesses, experts, or public figures, as well as extensively researching a topic of interest. Legmen are expected to have a keen curiosity, strong investigative skills, and the ability to effectively communicate information to their audience or editors.
The term "legman" is derived from the phrase "on someone's leg," which suggests that the reporter is directly engaging with the subject or target of their news coverage. This definition distinguishes legmen from desk-bound journalists who primarily rely on secondary sources, such as news wires or press releases.
A legman is often encountered in investigative journalism or beat reporting, where being on the ground and gathering first-hand information is crucial. They play a vital role in ensuring accurate and comprehensive reporting, as their firsthand experiences and interviews provide authentic and reliable insights to readers or viewers. The term "legman" encapsulates the essence of a reporter who ventures out into the world to gather news, making it an integral part of journalism jargon.
Common Misspellings for LEGMAN
Etymology of LEGMAN
The etymology of the word "legman" can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically to the field of journalism. The term originated in the United States, and its meaning has evolved over time.
The word "legman" is derived from the phrase "leg work", which refers to the physical activity involved in gathering information, conducting research, or doing field reporting. The term "legwork" itself was initially used in the context of police investigations, where officers would physically visit crime scenes, interview witnesses, and gather evidence on foot.
In the realm of journalism, particularly in newspaper offices, "legman" was first used to describe a junior reporter or an assistant assigned to gather information by undertaking various tasks that involved going out into the field on foot. This could include interviewing people, attending events, checking facts, or simply being physically present to observe and report on specific assignments.
Similar spelling words for LEGMAN
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