claptrap

[ˈklæp.træp]

claptrap Definition

• 1. absurd or nonsensical talk or ideas
• 2. insincere 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

Synonyms for claptrap

• nonsense
• rubbish
• balderdash
• drivel
• gibberish

Phrases with claptrap

• political 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.

• intellectual claptrap

  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.'