Barnumize

/ˈbɑːrnəmaɪz/ verb

Definition

To promote or publicize something using exaggerated claims and sensational methods to attract maximum attention.

Etymology

From Barnum (the famous showman) + '-ize' (to make or cause to be). Derived from P.T. Barnum's famous promotional techniques in 19th-century America.

Kelly Says

When you 'barnumize' something, you're basically playing the same game Barnum did with his 'Wild Man from Borneo' and fake mermaids—making something ordinary seem absolutely unbelievable!

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