bandwagon
UK[ˈbændˌwæɡən]US[ˈbændˌwæɡən]
n
a popular activity, effort, cause, etc., that attracts growing support
n
a large wagon used for carrying a band in a parade or procession
Morpheme Breakdown
band
wagon
band
wagon
Etymology
the word 'bandwagon' is a compound formed from two english words, 'band' and 'wagon'. it originated in 19th-century american english, literally referring to the large, decorated wagon that carried a musical band in a circus parade or political rally. the figurative sense, meaning a current trend that attracts followers, emerged from the idea of people climbing onto this prominent and attractive wagon to join the celebration or show support. this evolution captures the human tendency to adopt popular opinions or activities simply because they are fashionable or gaining momentum.
Analysis
Structure: band + wagon
band (from old english, meaning a group of people); wagon (from dutch, meaning a four-wheeled vehicle for transporting goods).
Examples
many politicians jumped on the environmental protection bandwagon during the election campaign.
after the team's first few wins, it seemed everyone wanted to get on the bandwagon.
the new diet trend has become a real bandwagon, with new books and products appearing every week.