Definition

A person who stands outside a show or event and loudly encourages people to come in, often using persuasive speech.

Example

The barker called out to passersby, trying to attract them to the carnival games.

Conversation

Did you see that barker at the carnival yesterday?

Yeah, he was so loud!

I think he really knew how to grab people's attention as a barker.

Absolutely! It made me want to check out the show.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barker → The word originates from Old English 'beorc' (meaning birch tree) and 'er' (a person who). A barker originally referred to a person who worked with or used birch trees, often in the context of making bark products or as a term for a dog barker.

Memory Tip

Think of someone associated with 'birch trees' ('beorc') — a barker is a person who might be linked to the bark of trees or the sound of a dog barking.

Visually Confused Words