Billboards are a common sight on highways and city streets. They are large outdoor advertising structures that display messages, images, or videos to promote products, services, or events. Billboards have been around for centuries and have evolved to become an essential part of the advertising industry. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of billboards and their associations.
Definitions
A billboard is a large outdoor advertising structure, typically found in high-traffic areas such as alongside busy roads. It is designed to capture the attention of passersby and convey a message quickly and effectively. Billboards can be made of various materials, including vinyl, paper, or fabric, and can be illuminated or non-illuminated.
Origin
The history of billboards dates back to ancient Egypt, where messages were inscribed on stone tablets and placed in public spaces. In the 19th century, billboards became popular in the United States as a way to promote products and services. The first modern billboard was erected in 1867 in New York City, and it was made of paper and glued to a wooden frame.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a billboard is “a large outdoor board for displaying advertisements.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a large sign for advertising, especially along a highway.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes a billboard as “a large outdoor board for displaying advertisements, especially by the side of a road.”
Associations
Billboards are often associated with advertising, marketing, and consumerism. They are used by businesses to promote their products and services, and by political candidates to gain support from voters. Billboards can also be used for public service announcements, such as promoting safe driving or encouraging people to vote.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for billboards include hoardings, signs, posters, banners, and placards.
Antonyms
There are no clear antonyms for billboards, but some opposite concepts might include subtlety, understatement, or minimalism.
The same root words
The word “billboard” does not have any common root words, but it is derived from the term “billing board,” which was used in the 19th century to describe a board where posters and advertisements were displayed.
Example Sentences
- The billboard on the highway advertised a new car dealership.
- The candidate’s campaign team put up billboards all over the city.
- The public service announcement on the billboard reminded drivers to wear their seatbelts.
- The artist painted a mural on the side of the building that looked like a billboard.
- The billboard company charges a fee for businesses to display their advertisements.