Shilling

Definition Meaning

To engage in the act of promoting a product, service, or idea for personal financial gain, often without disclosing the promotional nature of the action. This can also refer to the practice of endorsing something in a deceptive or insincere manner. In internet slang, it refers to promoting something online for personal benefit, typically with little regard for transparency or authenticity.

Part of Speech

• verb

Usage Examples

• He was caught shilling for a company without revealing his paid promotion.
• The influencer was accused of shilling for a product that she had no personal experience with.

Synonyms

• promoting for profit
• advertising
• endorsement

Antonyms

• genuine recommendation
• organic endorsement

Related Words

• marketing
• promotion
• advertisement

Disambiguating Definition

To 'shill' means to promote or endorse something for personal gain, usually without revealing that the promoter is being compensated. In online contexts, it often refers to insincere endorsements or promotions, especially for products or services.

Word History

The term 'shilling' originally referred to a British coin, specifically a unit of currency used in the UK before decimalization in 1971. Over time, the term evolved to describe someone who promoted goods or services in exchange for financial compensation. The modern usage, particularly online, refers to deceptive or undisclosed promotions, where individuals or influencers endorse products or services without revealing their financial incentive, often misleading their audience into believing the endorsement is genuine.

Word Illustration

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