claptrap
|clap-trap|
/ˈklæp.træp/
empty, showy talk
Etymology
'claptrap' originates from English, specifically a compound of 'clap' + 'trap', where 'clap' meant 'applause' and 'trap' meant a 'device' or 'trick'.
'claptrap' originally referred (18th century) to a device or stage trick used to win applause; it later broadened to mean any speech or device intended to elicit approval, and then to mean empty or pretentious talk.
Initially it meant 'a theatrical trick to provoke applause'; over time it evolved into the current meaning 'empty, pretentious, or nonsensical talk.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
insincere, showy, or empty talk or ideas intended to attract applause or approval; nonsense or pretentious speech or writing.
The politician's speech was mostly claptrap rather than a serious plan.
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Adjective 1
ridiculous, nonsensical, or pretentious (used to describe ideas, remarks, or works that are empty or absurd).
Her claptrap explanation failed to convince anyone.
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Last updated: 2025/11/13 18:22