What does poster mean?
A poster is a public visual message that uses text, images, or graphics to inform, persuade, or celebrate something. Traditionally, posters were large printed sheets attached to walls, noticeboards, or other prominent surfaces, and they became especially important with the spread of inexpensive color printing and public advertising. In modern online usage, the word often refers instead to a person who publishes messages, photographs, videos, or other material on social platforms and discussion forums. The two senses share an emphasis on public communication: one presents an announcement or advertisement to an audience, while the other creates content for others to encounter and share. In everyday conversation, “poster” can also be used for the online publisher, although “account,” “creator,” or “publisher” may be more precise when describing a person or organization that regularly produces such content.
nounA large printed or digital image containing text or graphics, used to advertise, announce, or promote something. The word can also refer to a person who posts messages, photographs, or other content online.
- A large sheet or image, usually printed and displayed publicly, that carries text, images, or graphics for advertisement, information, or decoration.
- A person who posts content, especially messages, photographs, or videos, on an online forum or social-media platform.
- A poster displayed in a public place to advertise an event, product, performance, or cause.
- A person or organization responsible for putting up posters or promoting an event or message.
"The campaign placed bright posters across the city to announce the opening of the new exhibition."
"A handmade poster hung outside the theater advertised the evening's performance."
"She shared the poster with the online community, where it quickly became widely discussed."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"The walls were covered with posters announcing the festival."
Before the internet, a poster could transform a blank wall into a public voice; today, the same idea can reach a global audience in seconds.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does poster come from?
The word entered English in the late 16th century from French poster, meaning a notice or placard. French poster derives from poster, “to post,” and ultimately from Latin poster, meaning “after,” referring to notices placed in public places. The same Latin root also underlies words such as post, postage, postal, and posture, although the modern development of “poster” became focused on a public notice or advertisement.
How poster is actually used
In contemporary usage, especially on websites and social media, “poster” commonly means someone who publishes online content. The older sense of a person who displays printed notices is less common but remains standard. As a form of address, the word can sound informal, while “poster child” is idiomatic and generally neutral in register.
Easily confused with poster
A poster is a visual announcement or advertisement, whereas a posture is a way of holding one's body.
A poster displays or promotes information, while a pastor is a religious leader or minister.