peddling

word · lemma: peddle

Definition

Selling things by going from place to place, often informally or on the street. It can also refer to selling illegal goods or spreading ideas.

Usage & Nuances

Often describes informal or street-level selling. Can carry a negative sense when used for illegal sales ('peddling drugs') or for promoting unwanted ideas ('peddling lies'). Rare in formal writing; more common in reports about crime or street vendors.

Example Sentences

He makes a living by peddling fruit on the street.

basic

Peddling fake products is illegal.

basic

People were annoyed by street vendors peddling noisy toys all afternoon.

natural

The man was arrested for peddling drugs.

basic

Teenagers sometimes try peddling homemade jewelry at festivals.

natural

She was caught peddling rumors about her coworkers.

natural