How to pronounce claptrap
Say it like KLAP-trap. Claptrap has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLAP).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce claptrap. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KLAP
- trap
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Claptrap pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KLAPSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- trapGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of claptrap
American and British speakers say claptrap in essentially the same way: /ˈklæpˌtræp/ in the US and /ˈklæpˌtræp/ in the UK.
British respelling: KLAP-trap.
What does claptrap mean?
- Empty verbiage or nonsense.
- A device or trick to gain applause; a humbug.
Where does claptrap come from?
Theater slang, c. 1730, from clap + trap, referring to theatrical techniques or gags used to incite applause.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying claptrap
How do you pronounce claptrap?
Say KLAP-trap. The American pronunciation is /ˈklæpˌtræp/. In British English it is /ˈklæpˌtræp/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in claptrap?
Claptrap has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KLAP). Broken into parts: KLAP · trap.
Do Americans and Brits say claptrap the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈklæpˌtræp/ and the British form is /ˈklæpˌtræp/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.