Plural of crier; people whose job is to announce news or make public announcements, or people who weep.
From 'cry' (Old French crier, to cry out) plus '-er' (one who does) and '-s' (plural). The word has had two parallel meanings: professional announcers and people who shed tears.
Town criers were essential before newspapers existed—they'd announce everything from local laws to public executions—so they were basically the original 'broadcast media,' ringing bells and shouting from street corners.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.