Sell

Definition

Sell is a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to exchange goods, services, or property for money or other compensation. As a noun, it refers to an act of selling or the ability to convince others of the value of something.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛl/
• Respelling: SEL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɛl/
• Respelling: SEL

Etymology

The word "sell" originates from Old English "sellan," meaning "to give, deliver, or hand over." It is related to Old Norse "selja" and Old High German "sellen," both of which share similar meanings. Over time, the term evolved to signify commercial transactions.

Derivatives

• Seller (noun)
• Resell (verb)
• Sellable (adjective)
• Upsell (verb)
• Sell-off (noun)

Synonyms

• Market
• Trade
• Exchange

Antonyms

• Buy
• Purchase
• Acquire

Usage

The term "sell" is widely used in commerce, economics, and everyday language. Examples include "He plans to sell his car" (verb) and "The promotion was a tough sell" (noun).

Related Terms

• Commerce: The activity of buying and selling.
• Transaction: An exchange or interaction involving goods or services.
• Retail: The sale of goods to consumers in small quantities.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To exchange goods or services for money: Refers to the act of transferring ownership in return for compensation.
  • Example: "She sold her artwork at the gallery."
• To promote or endorse something: Refers to persuading others of the value or benefit of something.
  • Example: "He sold the idea to his colleagues."
• To deceive or betray: Informal usage referring to misleading someone for personal gain.
  • Example: "He felt like he was sold a lie."

Noun

• An act of selling: Refers to the process or event of exchanging goods for compensation.
  • Example: "The sell took place at the farmer’s market."
• The ability to persuade: Refers to convincing others of the value of an idea or product.
  • Example: "It was a difficult sell, but he succeeded."