claptrap

== English == === Alternative forms === clap trap, clap-trap === Etymology === Theater slang, c. 1730, from clap +‎ trap, referring to theatrical techniques or gags used to incite applause. === Pronunciation === (UK, US) IPA(key): /ˈklæpˌtɹæp/ === Noun === claptrap (countable and uncountable, plural claptraps) Empty verbiage or nonsense. [from early 19th c.] Synonyms: hot air, palaver, waffle; see also Thesaurus:nonsense (historical) A device for producing a clapping sound in theaters. A device or trick to gain applause; a humbug. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ====