payola

[ pey-oh-luh ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a secret or private payment in return for the promotion of a product, service, etc., through the abuse of one's position, influence, or facilities.

payola

/ peɪˈəʊlə /

noun

1. a bribe given to secure special treatment, esp to a disc jockey to promote a commercial product
2. the practice of paying or receiving such bribes

Word History and Origins

Origin of payola¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; pay ¹ + -ola

Word History and Origins

Origin of payola¹

C20: from pay ¹+ -ola, as in Pianola

Example Sentences

The broadcast industry was already reeling, rocked by scandals -- radio payola and rigged TV quiz shows.

From The Daily Beast