TOWN CRIER Meaning and
Definition
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A town crier is a historical figure whose role was to publicly announce important news and announcements to the general population of a town or village. This form of communication dates back to medieval times when there were no mass media outlets or advanced technology for disseminating information.
The town crier served as a professional public announcer, usually appointed by local authorities or nobles, entrusted with the responsibility of spreading official news and proclamations to the townspeople. Clad in distinctive attire that often included a uniform, a tricorn hat, and a bell or a small drum, the town crier would make his presence known by ringing the bell or drumming before he commenced his vocal proclamation.
In addition to major events like births, deaths, and royal announcements, the town crier would also announce important civic information, such as market days, public meetings, and changes to regulations or bylaws. By performing his duties in public spaces, such as market squares or town centers, he ensured that everyone within earshot would receive the news.
The town crier was considered a trusted source of information and played a crucial role in keeping the townsfolk informed about significant matters. Their loud and clear announcements were essential for a community's ability to stay connected and remain informed in an era when literacy rates were low, and newspapers were scarce.
Although the role of the town crier has largely diminished with the advent of modern means of communication, they remain an iconic symbol of an older form of community information dissemination and continue to be seen during ceremonial events, parades, or historical reenactments, preserving a link to the past.
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A person employed by a town to make announcements of sales, intended meetings, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TOWN CRIER
- rown crier
- fown crier
- gown crier
- yown crier
- 6own crier
- 5own crier
- tiwn crier
- tkwn crier
- tlwn crier
- tpwn crier
- t0wn crier
- t9wn crier
- toqn crier
- toan crier
- tosn crier
- toen crier
- to3n crier
- to2n crier
- towb crier
- towm crier
- towncrier
Etymology of TOWN CRIER
The word "town crier" has a straightforward etymology. "Town" refers to a settlement or community, while "crier" derives from the Old French word "crier" meaning "to cry out" or "proclaim". The town crier, therefore, originally referred to an individual who made public announcements or news in the streets or other public places of a town or city. The role of a town crier dates back to ancient times when written communication was limited, and proclamations needed to be shared verbally with the community.
Similar spelling words for TOWN CRIER
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