English Dictionary

Definition of “gimmick

gimmick (ˈɡɪmɪkPronunciation for gimmick

Definitions

noun

  1. something designed to attract extra attention, interest, or publicity
  2. any clever device, gadget, or stratagem, esp one used to deceive
  3. mainly US a device or trick of legerdemain that enables a magician to deceive the audience

Alternative Forms

ˈgimmickry noun ˈgimmicky adjective

Word Origin

C20: originally US slang, of unknown origin

Usage examples

  • I told him they didn't and it was just a gimmick of the Frogs, but he wouldn't listen.
    Ashford, Jeffrey, A Question of Principle (1986)
  • I guess, the consumer saw them for what they were: a gimmick.
    Business Today (2000)
  • And the gimmick works -- this fourth game in the eight-year-old series is arguably the best.
    canada.com (2005)
  • Health claims were dismissed by the report as a "marketing gimmick ".
    Sun, News of the World (2002)
  • This is yet another dating gimmick , but it certainly is different.
    Claudia Hammond, EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER: A Journey Through the Science of Feelings (2005)

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