Search Dictionary
Definition of claptrap

claptrap

/ˈklæp.træp/
clap · trap
JUMP TO:

claptrap Lexical Profile

claptrap Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Absurd, empty, or nonsensical talk or ideas, especially pretentious language used merely to impress people or win cheap approval.

Example

"Voters quickly grew tired of the candidate's political claptrap and demanded concrete policy proposals."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for claptrap
Antonyms
View all antonyms for claptrap

• adjective

1

Absurd, pretentious, or insincere, especially when intended solely to win popular approval or cheap applause.

Example

"The critic dismissed the play's final act as a series of claptrap speeches aimed at pandering to the crowd."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for claptrap
Antonyms
View all antonyms for claptrap

• Nearby Words

clapboarding
clapper
clapperboard
claptrap
clara
clarence
clarence river

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 18th century as a theatrical term from 'clap' and 'trap', originally referring to a dramatic trick or showy line designed as a 'trap' to catch applause from the audience.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Claptrap. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/claptrap
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.