barker
|bar-ker|
🇺🇸
/ˈbɑrkər/
🇬🇧
/ˈbɑːkə/
one who barks
Etymology
'barker' originates from English, specifically formed from the verb 'bark' plus the agentive suffix '-er'.
'barker' developed from Middle English forms of 'bark' (an imitative verb representing a barking sound) to the agent noun 'barker'; by the 18th–19th century it was used for people who loudly advertise at fairs and shows.
Initially, it meant 'one who makes a barking sound' (especially a dog); over time it evolved to include the meaning 'a person who loudly solicits or advertises customers.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who stands in public (for example at a fair or sideshow) and loudly advertises or calls out to attract customers.
The barker at the circus drew a crowd with his loud, exaggerated pitch.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2026/01/17 00:12