[Lexicog] Semantic extensions

[Fritz Goerling]

I am interested in the origin of the expression "spin doctor". Is this a
semantic extension or what
has happend to "spin" in this expression? I found the following definition:
a public relations person who tries to forestall negative publicity by
publicizing
a favorable interpretation of the words or actions of a company or political
party
or famous person; "his title is Director of Communications but he is just a
spin doctor"
My hunch is that this is close to the meaning of "to spin a yarn" (= to tell
a tale).

Fritz Goerling

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