Gasbag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gasbag

[ˈɡæsˌbæɡ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

informal

A person who talks a lot, especially about unimportant things.

Synonyms

blowhard, chatterbox, windbag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gasbag	Used to describe someone who talks too much and often without saying anything meaningful, usually in a tiring way. My uncle is such a gasbag; he goes on and on about the same stories every time we see him
chatterbox	Used more affectionately or neutrally to describe someone who talks a lot, often in a lively and animated way. Can be endearing, especially when referring to children. Lisa can be a little chatterbox; she's always full of stories about her day at school
windbag	Similar to 'gasbag,' this word also describes someone who talks too much, often boringly and tediously, and usually without substance. It has a negative connotation. The politician is such a windbag; his speeches are long-winded and tedious
blowhard	Refers to a person who boasts or brags incessantly, often with an intention to impress others. This word carries a negative connotation. Nobody likes working with a blowhard who constantly talks about their supposed accomplishments

Examples of usage

He's such a gasbag, he never stops talking.
Don't listen to that gasbag, he doesn't know what he's talking about.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In various television shows and movies, 'gasbags' are often depicted as humorous characters who annoy others with their endless chatter.
Famous comedians have referred to politicians as gasbags in a comedic critique of their empty promises.
The term has been popularized in social media, often described in humorous contexts, especially when discussing influencers.

Psychology

People who are labeled as 'gasbags' can sometimes be seen as compensating for insecurities through excessive talking.
Research suggests that those who speak a lot but say little may struggle with social anxiety, leading them to fill silences.
This behavior can also be a way to establish dominance in social settings, where verbosity overshadows others.

Literature

In literary contexts, characters portrayed as gasbags often serve to highlight themes of deception or superficiality.
Many satirical novels feature gasbag characters who represent society's flaws and the danger of empty rhetoric.
The archetype can be found in classic literature, where eloquent characters may dominate discussions without substance.

Technology

In online discussions, the term 'gasbag' is frequently used to describe individuals who dominate forums with insignificant commentary.
Gasbags in technology conversations might misuse jargon, confusing rather than enlightening their audience.
Blogs and podcasts often address the phenomenon of gasbag culture, emphasizing the importance of meaningful dialogue over empty talk.

Origin of 'gasbag'

Main points about word origin

The term 'gasbag' originally referred to a type of bag that holds gas, particularly for balloons and airships.
Over time, it evolved into slang for people who speak empty words, suggesting their talk is filled with hot air.
The earliest recorded use of the term as a descriptor for a talkative person dates back to the early 20th century.

The term 'gasbag' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'gas' (meaning empty talk) with 'bag' (used to refer to a person). It gained popularity as a slang term for someone who talks excessively or nonsensically.

See also: gas, gases, gasification, gasoline.