1. Goods for Sale: This is the most common meaning. Merchandise refers to any product offered for sale, whether it be clothing, electronics, food, toys, or anything else. This definition is often used in retail contexts.
2. Trade Goods: Merchandise can also refer to goods that are traded, especially internationally. This definition highlights the commercial aspect of the goods.
3. To Promote or Market: Merchandise can be used as a verb meaning to promote or market goods. This is often done through advertising or selling.
Examples:
* "The store's merchandise was well-organized and easy to find." (Goods for sale)
* "The company exported a wide range of merchandise to Asia." (Trade goods)
* "The band merchandised its new album by selling t-shirts and posters." (Promote or market)
In essence, "merchandise" represents the tangible products involved in the process of buying and selling.