humbug Definition
- 1deceptive or false talk or behavior
- 2language or behavior that is intended to deceive or mislead someone, especially in order to gain an advantage
Using humbug: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "humbug" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The salesman's claims were nothing but humbug.
Example
Don't listen to his humbug.
Example
The politician's speech was full of humbug.
Example
The magician's tricks were just humbug.
humbug Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using humbug
to challenge someone to prove their claim or threat, often when one suspects that it is false or exaggerated
Example
When the salesman claimed that the product could cure any ailment, the customer called his bluff and demanded proof.
Example
The scammer pulled the wool over the old woman's eyes and stole her life savings.
Example
The mechanic took me for a ride by charging me for unnecessary repairs.
Phrases with humbug
Bah! Humbug!
an exclamation used to dismiss or express contempt for something
Example
Scrooge famously exclaimed 'Bah! Humbug!' when he was asked to donate to charity.
deceptive or false talk or behavior
Example
The company was accused of humbuggery in their advertising campaign.
Example
The con artist humbugged his victims into giving him money.
Origins of humbug
originated from the German word 'Humbuggery', meaning trickery
Summary: humbug in Brief
The term 'humbug' [ˈhʌmbʌɡ] refers to deceptive or false talk or behavior, often with the intention of gaining an advantage. It can be used to describe language or behavior that is intended to deceive or mislead someone. 'Humbug' is often used in phrases like 'Bah! Humbug!' to express contempt or dismissal, and 'to call someone's bluff,' 'to pull the wool over someone's eyes,' and 'to take someone for a ride,' all of which refer to various forms of deception.
