Broadsides are a type of printed material that was popular in the past. They were often used to convey news, announcements, or political messages. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of broadsides.
Definitions
Broadsides are single sheets of paper that are printed on one side only. They are typically larger than a standard piece of paper and are often used to convey news, announcements, or political messages. Broadsides can also refer to a type of naval attack where a ship fires all of its guns on one side.
Origin
The term “broadsides” originated in the 16th century and was used to describe printed sheets of paper that were posted in public places. These sheets were often used to announce news, advertise products, or promote political causes. Broadsides were an important form of communication in the pre-modern era when literacy rates were low, and newspapers were not widely available.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a broadside is “a sheet of paper printed on one or both sides and typically folded, containing news, advertisements, or other information of public interest.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines a broadside as “a large printed sheet of paper, typically one printed with a ballad, poem, or advertisement and posted in a public place.”
Associations
Broadsides are often associated with political propaganda and social activism. They were frequently used to promote political causes, such as the American Revolution or the abolition of slavery. Broadsides were also used to advertise products, such as medicines or entertainment.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for broadsides include posters, flyers, handbills, and leaflets. These terms all refer to printed materials that are used to convey information to a wide audience.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for broadsides, as they are a specific type of printed material. However, other forms of communication, such as oral storytelling or digital media, could be considered the opposite of broadsides.
The same root words
The word “broadside” is derived from the Old English word “brod,” which means “board” or “plank.” This root word is also found in other English words, such as “abroad” and “breadth.”
Example Sentences
- The political campaign distributed thousands of broadsides throughout the city.
- The museum had an exhibit of historical broadsides from the 18th century.
- The ship fired a broadside at the enemy vessel, causing significant damage.
Broadsides are a fascinating form of communication that have been used for centuries to convey news, announcements, and political messages. While they may not be as common today as they were in the past, broadsides continue to have an important place in our cultural history.