What does bandwagon mean Meaning and Definition
What does bandwagon mean
Pronunciation
/ˈbændˌwæɡən/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A vehicle, typically a horse-drawn wagon, used to carry a band, especially a military band. Figuratively, a popular movement or trend that many people join, often without fully understanding or thinking critically about it. To “jump on the bandwagon” means to join a popular movement or trend, often to gain social approval or avoid criticism.
Examples
- The bandwagon arrived at the parade, carrying a lively marching band.
- She jumped on the bandwagon and joined the popular social media challenge, but later regretted it.
Synonyms
- Trend
- Movement
- Craze
Antonyms
- Opposition
- Resistance
- Counter movement
Etymology
The term “bandwagon” originated in the mid-19th century, when bands were literally carried on wagons to perform at events and parades. The figurative use of the term emerged later, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as a metaphor for a popular movement or trend that people joined enthusiastically.
Usage Notes
The term “bandwagon” can be used in various contexts to describe a popular movement or trend. However, it often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that people are joining the movement without critical thinking or careful consideration. When using the term, be mindful of the tone and audience.
Cultural References
The term “bandwagon” has appeared in various forms of media and popular culture, including films, literature, and music. For example, the phrase “jump on the bandwagon” is often used in music and advertising to encourage people to join a trend or movement.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Jump on the bandwagon
- Bandwagon effect
- On the bandwagon
Related Words or Phrases
- Traffic
- Momentum
- Wave
Collocations
- Jump on the bandwagon
- Be on the bandwagon
- Hop on the bandwagon
Frequency of Use
The term “bandwagon” is moderately common in modern language, often used in informal and formal contexts. According to Google Ngram, the term’s frequency of use has remained relatively stable since the mid-20th century.
Common Misspellings
- Bandwagen
- Banwagon
- Band wagon
Additional Information
The concept of a bandwagon has deep historical roots, dating back to the mid-19th century. The original bandwagons were horse-drawn carriages used to carry bands to events and parades. The wagons were often decorated with flags and other ornaments, adding to the festive atmosphere. As the popularity of brass bands grew, so did the use of bandwagons.
Over time, the term “bandwagon” took on a figurative meaning, describing a popular movement or trend that people joined enthusiastically. This shift in meaning likely occurred in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as people began to use the term to describe social and cultural phenomena.
Today, the term “bandwagon” is widely used in various contexts, from politics and social media to advertising and entertainment. While it can be used to describe a positive trend or movement, it often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that people are joining without critical thinking or careful consideration.