Trumpery: meaning, definitions and examples

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trumpery

 

[ ˈtrʌmpəri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

deceptive nonsense

Trumpery refers to foolish or worthless nonsense. It can refer to things that are misleading or not what they seem, often carrying a sense of deception or frivolous worthlessness. This term is typically used to describe objects or ideas that are showy but ultimately lack substance or value.

Synonyms

foolishness, nonsense, triviality, worthlessness.

Examples of usage

  • The politician's promises were nothing but trumpery.
  • Her trumpery excuses did not convince anyone.
  • Don't be fooled by the trumpery of the flashy advertisement.

Translations

Translations of the word "trumpery" in other languages:

🇵🇹 futilidade

🇮🇳 छोटी चीजें

🇩🇪 Tändelei

🇮🇩 hal-hal sepele

🇺🇦 дрібниці

🇵🇱 bzdury

🇯🇵 無駄なもの

🇫🇷 bagatelle

🇪🇸 bagatela

🇹🇷 saçmalık

🇰🇷 허튼소리

🇸🇦 تفاهات

🇨🇿 hlouposti

🇸🇰 hlúposti

🇨🇳 琐事

🇸🇮 neumnosti

🇮🇸 smáatriði

🇰🇿 бос сөздер

🇬🇪 ბრიყვობა

🇦🇿 boş sözlər

🇲🇽 tonterías

Etymology

The word 'trumpery' originates from the Middle English term 'trumperie' which means 'deceit or trickery.' The root of the word can be traced back to the Old French 'trumper', which means 'to deceive or cheat.' The evolution of the term reflects its use in denoting items or ideas that are ostentatious or flashy in appearance but lacking in real value or integrity. Initially, it was used in a more general sense to encompass all forms of deception before it became associated specifically with worthless or nonsensical items. Over time, the word gained a somewhat derogatory connotation, suggesting that something labeled as trumpery is not only lacking in value but also designed to mislead or distract. The usage of 'trumpery' in modern contexts often implies a critique of superficiality or a warning against being misled by appearances.