claptrap

[ˈklæp.træp]

claptrap Definition

  • 1absurd or nonsensical talk or ideas
  • 2insincere or pretentious talk, especially intended to persuade people to buy something

Using claptrap: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "claptrap" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The politician's speech was full of claptrap and empty promises.

  • Example

    I don't believe a word of his claptrap about being a millionaire.

  • Example

    The advertisement was filled with claptrap to lure customers into buying the product.

claptrap Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with claptrap

  • empty, insincere, or exaggerated political rhetoric

    Example

    I'm tired of all the political claptrap that politicians spew during election season.

  • sales claptrap

    insincere or exaggerated sales talk used to persuade people to buy something

    Example

    The salesman's pitch was full of sales claptrap and I didn't believe a word of it.

  • ideas or theories that are absurd or nonsensical

    Example

    I can't stand all the intellectual claptrap that some academics spout.

Origins of claptrap

originally referred to a contraption for producing applause in theaters, from 'clap' + 'trap'

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Summary: claptrap in Brief

'Claptrap' [ˈklæp.træp] refers to absurd or nonsensical talk or ideas, or insincere or pretentious talk intended to persuade people to buy something. It is often used to describe political speeches or sales pitches that lack substance or credibility. Examples include 'The politician's speech was full of claptrap and empty promises,' and 'The advertisement was filled with claptrap to lure customers into buying the product.'