Definition

Noun: A single sheet of paper, usually small, containing an advertisement or announcement, intended to be distributed by hand to the public.

Usage

A "handbill" is a physical advertisement designed for mass, informal distribution. It is typically given directly to people in public spaces, posted on community boards, or left in stacks for people to take. Its purpose is to promote an event, service, business, or political message quickly and cheaply.

Examples

• The volunteers stood on the street corner, giving a handbill to every passerby to promote the new café.
• The concert organizers printed thousands of handbills to spread the word about the free show in the park.
• He found a handbill stuck under his windshield wiper advertising a local garage sale.

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: Before digital media, handbills were a primary method for mass communication regarding public meetings, theatrical performances, and political rallies.
• Collectibility: Vintage handbills, especially for famous concerts or historical events, are often collected as memorabilia.

Variants and Related Words

• Flyer / Flier (noun): A very close synonym for handbill. The terms are often used interchangeably, though "flyer" is more common in modern American English.
• Leaflet (noun): Similar to a handbill but can be a single sheet or a folded sheet. Often implies informative content (e.g., a health leaflet) as well as promotional.
• Circular (noun): A printed advertisement for mass circulation, often used as a synonym for handbill, but can also refer to a letter sent to a mailing list.
• Pamphlet (noun): A small, thin book without a hard cover, containing information or arguments about a single subject; it is longer and more detailed than a handbill.

Synonyms

• Flyer
• Flier
• Leaflet
• Circular
• Broadsheet (a larger-sized sheet)

Related Phrases

• To distribute handbills: The act of giving out handbills.
  • The company hired students to distribute handbills around the university campus.
• Handbill campaign: An organized effort to advertise something using handbills.
  • The local candidate's handbill campaign was very effective in the neighborhood.

Noun

1. an advertisement (usually printed on a page or in a leaflet) intended for wide distribution
   • he mailed the circular to all subscribers