mongering
Definition
Noun (rare, used in compounds): The action or practice of spreading, promoting, or trading in something undesirable, such as fear, hatred, or scandal. It is derived from the verb "monger," meaning to deal in or traffic in (often used disparagingly).
Usage Examples
- (Spreading fear to gain advantage.)
- (Promoting alarm or dread.)
- (Advocating or inciting conflict.)
Advanced Usage
- "mongering" as a standalone noun: While rarely used alone, it can refer to the general practice of trading in or promoting something negative.
- His constant mongering of gossip made him unpopular at work. (Spreading malicious rumors.)
Variants and Related Words
Monger (noun): A dealer or trader in a specified commodity (e.g., fishmonger, ironmonger). In negative contexts, it means one who spreads something harmful.
- He is a rumour-monger, always spreading false stories. (A person who deals in rumors.)
Monger (verb): To deal in or promote (something undesirable).
- They monger fear to control the population. (They spread fear deliberately.)
Synonyms
- Trafficking: Engaging in illegal or improper trade.
- Pedding: Promoting or selling something (often worthless or harmful).
- Spreading: Disseminating information or ideas, especially negative ones.
Related Idioms
"Mongering for trouble": Actively seeking or provoking conflict.
- Stop mongering for trouble; you're only making things worse. (Deliberately causing problems.)
"Mongering trade": Engaging in petty or disreputable commerce.
- The street was full of mongering trade in counterfeit goods. (Illicit or low-quality trading.)