merchandise
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɜːr.tʃən.daɪz/
KK: /ˈmɜrʧənˌdaɪz/
intransitive verb
Definition
To buy and sell goods or products in a business context.
Example
The company plans to merchandise its new line of clothing next month.
Tense Forms
Past: merchandised
Past Participle: merchandised
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how we could merchandise our artwork?
That's an interesting idea! What do you have in mind?
I was thinking we could create some prints and sell them online to merchandise our style.
I love that! It would be a fun way to share our work with more people.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
trade
barter
deal
Antonyms
hoard
withhold
refuse
noun
Definition
Items that are bought and sold in trade or business.
Example
The store has a wide variety of merchandise, including clothing and electronics.
Conversation
Did you check out the new merchandise at the store?
Yeah, I saw some cool stuff there!
I really want to get some of that merchandise for the concert next week.
transitive verb
Definition
To buy and sell goods or to promote their sale through advertising or display.
Example
The company decided to merchandise their new line of clothing at the local mall.
Tense Forms
Past: merchandised
Past Participle: merchandised
Conversation
Have you seen how they merchandise that new gaming console?
Yeah, I noticed it everywhere in the stores!
It's smart because it really attracts buyers.
Root Explanation
Merchandise is derived from the Old French word 'marchandise' (meaning goods or wares), which in turn comes from 'marchand' (meaning merchant). The word refers to goods that are bought and sold by merchants.
Memory Tip
Think of 'merchants' who deal in 'goods' ('marchandise') — that's why merchandise refers to items for sale.
Visually Confused Words
mechanize
mechanist
mechanism
mechanics