Gasbag: meaning, definitions and examples
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gasbag
[ˈɡæsˌbæɡ ]
Definition
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.
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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.
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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.
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blowhard |
Refers to a person who boasts or brags incessantly, often with an intention to impress others. This word carries a negative connotation.
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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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "gasbag" in other languages:
🇵🇹 falador
🇮🇳 बड़बड़िया
🇩🇪 Schwätzer
🇮🇩 tukang omong
🇺🇦 базіка
🇵🇱 gaduła
🇯🇵 おしゃべりな人
🇫🇷 bavard
🇪🇸 charlatán
🇹🇷 gevezelik eden
🇰🇷 수다쟁이
🇸🇦 ثرثار
🇨🇿 kecal
🇸🇰 táraj
🇨🇳 话匣子
🇸🇮 govorec
🇮🇸 málhvetja
🇰🇿 көп сөйлеуші
🇬🇪 მეტყველება
🇦🇿 çox danışan
🇲🇽 charlatán