balderdash

American  

[bawl-der-dash] / ˈbɔl dərˌdæʃ /

noun

1. senseless, stupid, or exaggerated talk or writing; nonsense.

2. Obsolete. a muddled mixture of liquors.

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balderdash British  

/ ˈbɔːldəˌdæʃ /

noun

1. stupid or illogical talk; senseless rubbish

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Etymology

Origin of balderdash

First recorded in 1590–1600; of obscure origin

Explanation

Balderdash is something said or written that doesn't make sense, such as a ridiculous claim or a bad argument. In other words, it's complete and utter nonsense. Balderdash is a fun, somewhat old-fashioned term for "nonsense" or "rubbish." It carries a British, slightly theatrical overtone, and is best used in a light-hearted way for trivial matters. Calling someone's argument "balderdash" feels more like a playful rebuke than a harsh insult. Save weightier terms like fallacy or misinformation for important or professional disputes, as serious concerns deserve a more serious word than balderdash.

Example Sentences

For Mr. Merrill of Harrison Street, the romanticization of remote work is balderdash.

From New York Times • Nov. 12, 2021

It’s no secret that the pandemic has been a rich breeding ground for infectious balderdash of every description.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 14, 2021

The creators could have used the word hooey or baloney or balderdash.

From Washington Times • Sep. 23, 2020

Let’s all put the kibosh on ageist content and end all this poppycock and balderdash about older Americans.

From Washington Post • Dec. 20, 2019

The boy might have been only twelve, but he knew already that opportunity = balderdash.

From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman