Pronunciation: [pˈʊʃə] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "pusher" is quite straightforward - it is spelled just as it sounds. The initial sound is the 'p' sound, which is represented by the letter 'p'. The 'u' sound is represented by the letter 'u', followed by the 'sh' sound, which is made up of the letters 's' and 'h'. Finally, we have the 'er' sound, which is represented by the letters 'e' and 'r'. The IPA phonetic transcription for "pusher" is /ˈpʊʃər/.
A pusher, in its most general sense, is a person, object, or mechanism used to exert force or pressure in order to move something forward. The term "pusher" can be applied in various contexts and has diverse meanings depending on the field of reference:
1. In common usage, a pusher refers to an individual who illegally sells or distributes drugs, often engaging in street-level operations. This term is commonly used to describe those involved in the trade of illicit substances such as cocaine, heroin, or prescription medications.
2. In the context of transportation, a pusher is a vehicle or locomotive placed at the back of a train in order to provide additional power for propulsion, especially when traversing steep gradients. Pusher engines are helpful for increasing traction and ensuring the smooth movement of trains, particularly in challenging terrains.
3. In recreational activities, a pusher may refer to a person who assists beginner skaters, rollerbladers, or skateboarders by pushing them from behind to help gain momentum and balance.
4. Another reference involves "pusher aircraft," which describes an aircraft with the propeller or engine positioned at the rear, pushing the aircraft forward instead of pulling from the front. This design is commonly seen in some light aircraft and experimental aircraft.
Overall, the term "pusher" denotes a forceful agent involved in advancing, motivating, or moving something forward, whether in terms of illegal activities, transportation, assisting beginners, or specific engineering designs.
One who pushes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pusher" has multiple etymological origins and different meanings associated with each origin.
1. Drug Dealer: In the context of drug dealing, "pusher" derives from the verb "push" which originally meant to move forward forcefully, exert pressure, or promote something aggressively. By extension, in the 19th century, the term "pusher" started being used to refer to someone who promotes or sells drugs aggressively.
2. Peddler or Salesperson: In a more general sense, the term "pusher" can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was used to describe peddlers or salespeople who would aggressively promote and sell their wares by pushing or persuading customers to buy.
