gimmick — a trick or device intended to attract attention, publicity, or business
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a trick or device intended to attract attention, publicity, or business
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɡɪmɪk/
Example Sentences
- The restaurant's singing waiters turned out to be just a gimmick to attract tourists.
- His magic show was full of high-tech gimmicks but lacked real talent.
- The politician's promise to give everyone a free pizza was seen as an election gimmick.
gimmick
NOUN[/ˈɡɪmɪk/]
a trick or device intended to attract attention, publicity, or business
a carnival game operator enthusiastically demonstrates an oversized spinning wheel covered in huge fake prizes. He spins the colorful wheel dramatically while pointing to enormous stuffed animals hanging above his booth. When the wheel stops, he quickly hands a tiny plastic toy to the disappointed customer instead of the big prize shown. The customer looks confused while holding the small worthless item, realizing the display was just for show. Other potential customers nearby start walking away after seeing the obvious deception. a trick or device intended to attract attention, publicity, or business
His gimmick draws crowds from their picnic, as children mimic every trick!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Gimmick originated in early 20th-century American slang, referring to a concealed device or trick used by magicians. The word emerged from circus and vaudeville culture, where it described secret mechanisms or deceptive techniques employed in performances.
Breakdown
The precise etymological origin is uncertain. It may derive from a Yiddish word or a corruption of 'gimcrack' (a showy but worthless object), though the exact morphological breakdown remains unclear among etymologists.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The restaurant's singing waiters turned out to be just a gimmick to attract tourists.”
“His magic show was full of high-tech gimmicks but lacked real talent.”
“The politician's promise to give everyone a free pizza was seen as an election gimmick.”
“Don't fall for their gimmick - read the fine print before signing anything.”
📚Related Words
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