Astroturfing

Pronunciation: /ˈæstroʊˌtɜrfɪŋ/

Definitions of astroturfing

noun a practice of masking the sponsors of a message or organization to make it appear as though it originates from and is supported by grassroots participants

Example Sentences

A1 Astroturfing is when a company creates fake online reviews.

A2 Some politicians use astroturfing to make it seem like they have more support than they actually do.

B1 Astroturfing can be a deceptive marketing tactic used to manipulate public opinion.

B2 The practice of astroturfing has become more prevalent with the rise of social media.

C1 Astroturfing campaigns are often funded by special interest groups to influence public perception.

C2 It is important for consumers to be aware of astroturfing and critically evaluate information they come across online.

Examples of astroturfing in a Sentence

formal The company was accused of astroturfing by creating fake online reviews to boost their reputation.

informal I heard that some companies are astroturfing on social media to make their products seem more popular.

slang I can't believe they're astroturfing the internet just to sell more stuff.

figurative His constant bragging about his accomplishments felt like astroturfing his own ego.

Grammatical Forms of astroturfing

• past tense: astroturfed
• plural: astroturfings
• comparative: more astroturfing
• superlative: most astroturfing
• present tense: astroturfs
• future tense: will astroturf
• perfect tense: has astroturfed
• continuous tense: is astroturfing
• singular: astroturf
• positive degree: astroturf
• infinitive: to astroturf
• gerund: astroturfing
• participle: astroturfed

Origin and Evolution of astroturfing

First Known Use: 1985 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The term 'astroturfing' originated from the concept of artificial grass, which is called AstroTurf. It was coined to describe fake grassroots movements that are actually orchestrated by organizations or individuals to appear as if they are genuine public initiatives.

Evolution of the word: Initially used to describe fake grassroots campaigns, 'astroturfing' has evolved to encompass any deceptive practice that creates the illusion of grassroots support or opposition.