What does placard mean?
A placard is a sign, poster, or notice displayed in a public place to communicate information, announce an event, advertise a business, or express a message. It may be made from paper, cardboard, wood, metal, or another material, and its wording and appearance are often designed to attract attention from passers-by. The word can also be used as a verb: to placard a building or public space means to cover it with signs or notices, while to placard an issue means to publicize it through conspicuous displays. In everyday use, placard often suggests a relatively simple message or a temporary announcement, whereas poster more commonly refers to a larger, often more visually elaborate display. Both words are standard in British and American English.
A public sign, poster, or notice displaying information, an announcement, or a message.
"The placard carried the name of the candidate and a short election message."
Common in both British and American English. It can refer to a sign of any material, though it often suggests a relatively simple or temporary display.
To announce or publicize something by means of a placard, or to attach placards to a building or public place.
"Protesters placarded the courthouse with demands for reform."
This use is somewhat more formal or specialized than the noun and often implies conspicuous public display.
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"The placards were visible from across the square."
A placard turns a simple sheet of paper or board into a public voice, announcing a message where passers-by cannot miss it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does placard come from?
The word comes through French from a term associated with plaquer, meaning to fasten or attach. In English it originally referred to a notice or sign, and by the 19th century it was also used for a public announcement or advertisement. The related English word plaque comes from the same French verbal root and refers especially to a flat ornamental or commemorative plate.
Related word forms
How placard is actually used
The noun is common in British and American English. The verb is more frequent in formal or historical usage than the noun and often implies announcing a message through conspicuous public signs.