spokesmodel: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, Marketing/Advertising
Quick answer
What does “spokesmodel” mean?
A person, typically attractive and photogenic, hired to represent and promote a brand or product, often in advertising and media appearances.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, typically attractive and photogenic, hired to represent and promote a brand or product, often in advertising and media appearances.
A promotional representative who combines the roles of spokesperson and model, emphasizing both verbal communication skills and visual appeal to market products or services.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood in both varieties but is more commonly used in American marketing contexts. The concept exists in the UK but might be described with phrases like 'brand ambassador' or simply 'model'.
Connotations
In both varieties, it can imply a role prioritizing looks and presentation over technical expertise. Slightly more established as a specific job title in US media.
Frequency
More frequent in American English, particularly in entertainment, fashion, and consumer goods industries. Rare in formal British contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “spokesmodel” in a Sentence
spokesmodel for [BRAND/PRODUCT]work as a spokesmodelhired a spokesmodel to promoteVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “spokesmodel” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She was spokesmodelling for the new fragrance at the London launch.
American English
- He spent the summer spokesmodeling for a sports drink brand.
adjective
British English
- She landed a major spokesmodel contract.
American English
- The brand sought a spokesmodel candidate with a strong social media following.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing and PR to describe a person contracted for promotional campaigns.
Academic
Very rare; might appear in critical studies of media, advertising, or gender roles.
Everyday
Understood but not common; might be used when discussing ads or celebrities.
Technical
Not a technical term; specific to advertising and media industries.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “spokesmodel”
- Confusing with 'spokesperson' (which emphasizes authority/knowledge over appearance).
- Using in formal contexts where 'representative' is more appropriate.
- Spelling as 'spokes model' (should be one word or hyphenated: spokesmodel/spokes-model).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, primarily in the advertising, fashion, and consumer goods industries. It describes a person contracted to represent a brand through media appearances, advertising shoots, and promotional events.
The terms overlap significantly. 'Spokesmodel' often emphasises the modelling/photogenic aspect, while 'brand ambassador' can imply a broader, longer-term relationship and might involve more community engagement or content creation.
Yes, although historically more associated with women, the term is gender-neutral. A male in the role can be called a spokesmodel.
It is informal and industry-specific. In formal business or academic reports, terms like 'brand representative', 'promotional representative', or 'endorser' are often preferred.
A person, typically attractive and photogenic, hired to represent and promote a brand or product, often in advertising and media appearances.
Spokesmodel: in British English it is pronounced /ˈspəʊksˌmɒd(ə)l/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈspoʊksˌmɑːd(ə)l/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The face of the brand”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a SPOKESperson who is also a MODEL. They speak for the brand and model the product.
Conceptual Metaphor
A HUMAN IS A MARKETING TOOL / A PERSON IS A LIVING ADVERTISEMENT.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary connotation that distinguishes a 'spokesmodel' from a 'spokesperson'?