By word of mouth – Definition & Meaning

By word of mouth is a common phrase that is used to describe the spread of information through oral communication. It is a traditional way of sharing information that has been used for centuries. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of the phrase “by word of mouth.”

Definitions

By word of mouth is a phrase that refers to the oral communication of information from one person to another. It is a means of sharing information that does not involve any written or printed materials. The phrase is often used to describe the spread of rumors, gossip, and other types of information.

Origin

The phrase “by word of mouth” has been in use for centuries. Its origin can be traced back to the early days of human civilization when oral communication was the only means of sharing information. The phrase was first recorded in the English language in the 14th century.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, by word of mouth means “through spoken communication rather than in writing or through other media.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “by means of spoken words rather than by writing or printing.”

Associations

By word of mouth is often associated with the spread of rumors and gossip. It is also associated with the sharing of information within small communities, such as families or neighborhoods.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms for by word of mouth, including orally, verbally, vocally, and by mouth.

Antonyms

The antonyms of by word of mouth include written, printed, and published.

The same root words

The phrase “by word of mouth” does not have any root words.

Example Sentences

1. The news about the new restaurant spread quickly by word of mouth.
2. The company’s reputation was damaged by negative comments that were spread by word of mouth.
3. The tradition of passing down stories from generation to generation was done by word of mouth.

In conclusion, by word of mouth is a phrase that has been used for centuries to describe the oral communication of information. It is a traditional means of sharing information that is still used today. The phrase is often associated with the spread of rumors and gossip, but it can also be used to describe the sharing of information within small communities.