claptrap

American  

[klap-trap] / ˈklæpˌtræp /

noun

1. pretentious but insincere or empty language.

   His speeches seem erudite but analysis reveals them to be mere claptrap.

   Synonyms:

   bunk, nonsense, hokum, humbug, sham

2. any artifice or expedient for winning applause or impressing the public.

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claptrap British  

/ ˈklæpˌtræp /

noun

1. contrived but foolish talk

2. insincere and pretentious talk

   politicians' claptrap

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Etymology

Origin of claptrap

First recorded in 1720–30; clap ¹ + trap ¹

Example Sentences

Divided into three acts, “Noises Off” provides three different experiences of “Nothing On,” the theatrical claptrap the actors within the play are trying to survive.

From Los Angeles Times

For all the claptrap over the decades about booting people out, this country’s leaders quickly realize their error and bust out the proverbial welcome mat just as quickly.

From Los Angeles Times

One doesn’t have to be a fan of Disney to see that as fatuous claptrap.

From Los Angeles Times

A public defender in Virginia said, "I have never heard of any of that claptrap in my jurisdiction."

From Salon

In a memorable scene, he barges into a lecture on anatomy and exposes the professor’s teachings as claptrap.

From New York Times