claptrap (klaptrap)

and a. I. n. 1t. A contrivance for clapping in theaters. - 2. Figuratively, an artifice or device to elicit applause or gain popularity; deceptive show or pretense. This actor [Thomas Cobham],... when approaching a claptrap, gives such note of preparation that they must indeed be barren spectators who do not perceive that there is something coming. Quoted in N. and Q., 7th ser., II. 318. He played to the galleries, and indulged them of course with an endle succe ion of clap -traps. Brougham , Sheridan. Trashy books which owe their circulation to advertising skill or to pretentious clap -trap. Stubbs , Medieval and Modern Hist., p. 52. II. a . Designing or designed merely to win approval or catch applause. The unworthy arts of the clap - trap mob-orator. A. K. H. Boyd , Country Parson, i. Read election speeches and observe how votes are gained by clap - trap appeals to sensele prejudices. H. Spencer , Study of Sociol., p. 289.