Definition

Content created by an influencer or creator that is paid for or subsidized by a brand, typically disclosed with hashtags like #ad or #sponsored to comply with FTC regulations.

Example Usage

Her latest Instagram post about the skincare routine is sponsored by that luxury brand she's been promoting.

Origin

From the verb 'sponsor,' dating to the 16th century, but applied to social media content in the 2010s.

Fun Fact

The FTC began requiring explicit 'sponsored' disclosures around 2013 after realizing influencers were making undisclosed paid endorsements.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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