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- Dictionaryclaptrap/ˈklaptrap/
noun
- 1. absurd or nonsensical talk or ideas: "such sentiments are just pious claptrap"
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CLAPTRAP definition: 1. silly talk that means nothing and should not be believed: 2. silly talk that means nothing and…. Learn more.
The meaning of CLAPTRAP is pretentious nonsense : trash. How to use claptrap in a sentence.
If you describe something that someone says as claptrap, you mean that it is stupid or foolish although it may sound important. [ informal , disapproval ] This is the claptrap that politicians have peddled many times before.
noun. pretentious but insincere or empty language: His speeches seem erudite but analysis reveals them to be mere claptrap. Synonyms: bunk, nonsense, hokum, humbug, sham. any artifice or expedient for winning applause or impressing the public. claptrap. / ˈklæpˌtræp /.
Define claptrap. claptrap synonyms, claptrap pronunciation, claptrap translation, English dictionary definition of claptrap. n. Pretentious, insincere, or empty language: "I hate ... that air / Of claptrap, which your recent poets prize" .
Use the word claptrap when you're talking about overblown nonsense. You might read your English professor's new book and secretly feel that it's nothing but claptrap. Writing that's grandiose or boastful is one kind of claptrap, and a ridiculous or absurd speech is another.
Origin of Claptrap. Theater slang, c. 1730, from clap and trap, referring to theatrical techniques or gags used to incite applause. From Wiktionary. Obsolete claptrap a theatrical trick to win applause clap trap.
Definition of claptrap noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
claptrap meaning, definition, what is claptrap: talk that is stupid or shows a lack of k...: Learn more.
If you describe something that someone says as claptrap, you mean that it is stupid or foolish although it may sound important.
