cigarette girl: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No, it is a historically specific role that largely disappeared in the latter half of the 20th century, primarily due to changing social attitudes towards smoking and shifts in entertainment venues. It now exists mainly as a nostalgic or themed entertainment concept.

Primarily, but they often sold cigars, chewing gum, chocolates, and sometimes flowers or novelties from their trays.

It is not inherently offensive but is a product of its time. Modern usage often acknowledges its dated nature. Analysis of the role can touch on gendered and objectifying aspects of historical service industries.

The term is gender-specific. Historically, the role was almost exclusively performed by women. A man performing a similar function would not have been called a 'cigarette girl' but perhaps a 'cigarette vendor' or 'tray boy,' though such roles were exceedingly rare.

A woman employed at a nightclub, restaurant, or event to sell cigarettes, cigars, and sometimes other small items from a tray worn around her neck or carried in her hands.

Cigarette girl is usually historical/specialized; occasionally used in nostalgic or entertainment contexts. in register.

Cigarette girl: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsɪɡ.əˈret ɡɜːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsɪɡ.əˈret ɡɝːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.