snake oil salesman

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snake oil salesman

Someone who sells, promotes, or is a general proponent of some valueless or fraudulent cure, remedy, or solution. (Can also be formed as "saleswoman" or "salesperson.") I find it hard to believe anyone would fall for those snake oil salesmen on TV selling holistic medicines and therapies. A lot of people have been swayed by the presidential candidate's plan for economic growth, but if you ask me, she sounds like a snake oil saleswoman.
See also: oil, salesman, snake
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
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References in periodicals archive ?
Either we become known by families and fellow educators as trusted and experienced resources, or we become the snake-oil salespeople of the 21st century, known for dubious promises, quack tonics, and employing anxiety to hoist our profits.
The new snake-oil industry: private college admissions consultants must join with college admissions counselors and others to help families
Among the spam that clogs your e-mail, you probably find dubious offers from cyberage snake-oil salespeople who claim their diet or exercise products can help you lose weight and get fit.
Get fit on the Web: did you know your sleep habits could contribute to weight gain? (Link-Up@Home)
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