viral marketing

[ vahy-ruhl mahr-ki-ting ]

noun

1. a marketing strategy that focuses on spreading information and opinions about a product or service from person to person, especially by using unconventional means such as the internet or email:

   Which online social networks can help with viral marketing?

viral marketing

noun

1. a direct marketing technique in which a company persuades internet users to forward its publicity material in e-mails (usually by including jokes, games, video clips, etc)
2. a marketing strategy in which conventional media are eschewed in favour of various techniques designed to generate word-of-mouth publicity, in the hope of creating a fad or craze

Word History and Origins

Origin of viral marketing¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

Despite this, public perception of the site seems overwhelmingly negative—and much of its bad reputation comes from the viral marketing ploys the company uses to reel in new users.

From Slate

A couple of billboards, they had like Nicolas Cage, half of his face and an evil number that you could call and then you hear his voice, but almost all of it was done through viral marketing.

From Salon

Viral marketing hits, like last spring’s Grimace shakes, and upgraded menu items helped to boost full-year revenue by 10% to nearly $25 billion.

From Seattle Times

Sam says it's been "surprisingly popular" - so much so that, unlike his previous viral marketing attempts, he says he won't stop once Alan Wake 2 comes out.

From BBC

DePaoli said it’s not unusual for companies to engage in viral marketing.

From Seattle Times