Windbag Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🗣️

Add to dictionary

windbag

[ˈwɪndbæɡ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

personality trait

A person who talks at length without making much sense; a person who talks too much and says very little.

Synonyms

blowhard, chatterbox, gasbag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
windbag	Used to describe someone who talks at great length but says little of value, often in a boring or annoying way. Negative connotation. Everyone tried to avoid Bob during meetings; he was such a windbag
blowhard	Refers to someone who boasts about themselves and talks a lot, often in a loud and annoying manner. Strongly negative connotation. Nobody could stand listening to Jerry, he was just a blowhard who bragged about his achievements all day
gasbag	Similar to 'windbag,' it refers to someone who talks a lot but says very little of substance. Often viewed as very annoying. Negative connotation. I can't sit next to Jane at dinner parties; she's such a gasbag
chatterbox	Used for someone who talks a lot, usually in a more light-hearted or affectionate manner. Less negative compared to others. My niece is such a chatterbox; she can go on and on about her day

Examples of usage

He's such a windbag, he never stops talking but never actually says anything important.
Don't invite him to the meeting, he's just a windbag who will waste everyone's time.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, characters identified as windbags often serve comedic roles, providing entertainment through their excessive chatter.
Shakespeare's works occasionally feature characters who can be described as windbags, using eloquent speech to convey vacuous ideas.

Pop Culture

Television shows often portray windbag characters in political or corporate settings, highlighting their way of speaking over real ideas.
Famous comedians frequently use the concept of a windbag in their routines, poking fun at those who over-explain simple thoughts.

Psychology

Psychologists suggest that individuals labeled as windbags may struggle with insecurity, using verbosity to mask deeper feelings of inadequacy.
Over-talking can often lead to boredom in listeners, prompting psychological studies on effective communication.

Historical Usage

In early American politics, politicians described as windbags often failed to get elected, as voters preferred direct communication.
In the early 20th century, radio hosts who spoke endlessly without substance were often referred to as windbags, affecting their popularity.

Origin of 'windbag'

Main points about word origin

The term 'windbag' combines 'wind' (air) and 'bag' (a container), suggesting someone who carries a lot of empty words.
It was first popularized in the 19th century, where it often referred to someone making grand promises without substance.

The term 'windbag' originated in the 19th century from the combination of 'wind' (referring to empty talk) and 'bag' (indicating a container). It is used to describe a person who talks excessively but lacks substance in their speech.