Definition

Noun: A person who walks in public places wearing, or carrying, two large advertising boards or signs. One board is typically hung over the chest, and the other over the back, resembling the slices of bread in a sandwich, hence the name. This person is employed to promote a business, event, or product.

Usage

The term "sandwichman" specifically refers to a human advertiser who carries physical signs. It is a compound noun where "sandwich" metaphorically describes the positioning of the signs on the person's body. * The cafe hired a sandwichman to walk up and down the high street. * Before digital ads, the sandwichman was a common sight in city centers.

Advanced Usage

• The role is often associated with historical or traditional forms of street advertising, though it is still used in some modern marketing campaigns for a nostalgic or eye-catching effect.
• The term can be used figuratively to describe someone caught between two opposing sides or forces, though this is a less common metaphorical extension.
  • In the debate, he felt like a sandwichman, pressured by both political factions.

Variants and Related Words

• Sandwich board (n): The pair of advertising signs worn by the sandwichman.
  • He carried a heavy sandwich board.
• Human billboard (n): A more modern, general term for a person used as a walking advertisement, which may include people wearing sign-vests or body paint, not necessarily two large boards.

Synonyms

• Human billboard
• Sign-walker
• Mobile advertiser

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning is literal and occupational. It describes a specific, physical job.
• The metaphorical use to mean "a person caught in the middle" is derived from the visual imagery of being pressed between two boards.

Noun

1. a person with advertising boards hanging from the shoulders