NYT Dictionary
CLAPTRAP
/ˈklæpˌtɹæp/NounCLAP-trapclap-trap · 2 syllablesGrade 7
Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2025
Meaning
Empty verbiage or nonsense.
Etymology
Origin: Unknown
Theater slang, c. 1730, from clap + trap, referring to theatrical techniques or gags used to incite applause.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hot airpalaverwaffleabsurdityall my eyeall my eye and Betty Martinapple greaseapplesaucebafflegabbalderdash
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle: