/klap"trap'/ , n.
1. pretentious but insincere or empty language: His speeches seem erudite but analysis reveals them to be mere claptrap.
2. any artifice or expedient for winning applause or impressing the public.
[ 1720-30; CLAP 1 + TRAP 1 ]
Syn. 1. sham, humbug, hokum, nonsense, bunk.