— gimmicker , n. — gimmicky , adj.
/gim"ik/ , n.
1. an ingenious or novel device, scheme, or stratagem, esp. one designed to attract attention or increase appeal.
2. a concealed, usually devious aspect or feature of something, as a plan or deal: An offer that good must have a gimmick in it somewhere.
3. a hidden mechanical device by which a magician works a trick or a gambler controls a game of chance.
4. Electronics Informal. a capacitor formed by intertwining two insulated wires.
v.t.
5. to equip or embellish with unnecessary features, esp. in order to increase salability, acceptance, etc. (often fol. by up ): to gimmick up a sports car with chrome and racing stripes.
v.i.
6. to resort to gimmickry, esp. habitually.
[ 1925-30, Amer.; orig. uncert. ]
Syn. 1. stunt, plan, ruse, ploy; angle.