peddle

[ ped-l ]

verb (used with object)

, ped·dled, ped·dling.

1. to carry (small articles, goods, wares, etc.) from place to place for sale at retail; hawk.
2. to deal out, distribute, or dispense, especially in small quantities:

   to peddle radical ideas.

3. to sell (drugs) illicitly.

verb (used without object)

, ped·dled, ped·dling.

1. to go from place to place with goods, wares, etc., for sale at retail.
2. to occupy oneself with trifles; trifle.

peddle

/ ˈpɛdəl /

verb

1. to go from place to place selling (goods, esp small articles)
2. tr to sell (illegal drugs, esp narcotics)
3. tr to advocate (ideas) persistently or importunately

   to peddle a new philosophy

4. archaic.
   intr to trifle

Other Words From

• re·peddle verb (used with object) repeddled repeddling
• un·peddled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of peddle¹

First recorded in 1525–35; apparently back formation from peddler; peddle indef 5, reinforced by piddle

Word History and Origins

Origin of peddle¹

C16: back formation from pedlar

Example Sentences

During election season, expect to hear Republicans peddle falsehoods about abortion to discredit it and demonize the people who provide or support it.

From Los Angeles Times

The fact that I was chilled by his ability to peddle false talking points with a smile while also being one of the most agreeable, polite people I’d ever met.

From Salon

For the Beninese government, it’s a victory they can peddle to gain the people’s favor, while France can mine it as an image-boosting tactic that comes with tacit paternalism.

From Los Angeles Times

Hall of Famer Gaylord Perry pitched a complete game for his 300th victory in 1982, and he changed his jersey after every inning, creating nine authentic artifacts he could peddle.

From Los Angeles Times

But there are no real consequences for the influencers who engage in fearmongering and peddle lies.

From Slate

Related Words

• hawk
• solicit