verb
peddle
PEH-duhl
verb
1
To sell goods, especially in small quantities or door to door.
"He used to peddle vegetables from a cart around the neighborhood."
2
To sell illegal drugs.
"The gang was arrested for peddling drugs near the school."
3
To spread an idea, rumor, or claim, especially a dishonest or unwelcome one.
"The website was accused of peddling conspiracy theories."
How to Use Peddle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo sell something (often door to door or small-time), or more broadly to spread claims or rumors.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "pedal" (the foot lever/action) — same sound, different word entirely.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
peddle goods
peddle drugs
peddle lies
Word Forms
peddled past tense, peddles singular
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Etymology
A back-formation from "pedlar" (someone who sells goods while traveling), the way "burgle" was formed from "burglar."