gimmick

[ gim-ik ]
/ ˈgɪm ɪk /

noun

an ingenious or novel device, scheme, or stratagem, especially one designed to attract attention or increase appeal.
a concealed, usually devious aspect or feature of something, as a plan or deal: An offer that good must have a gimmick in it somewhere.
a hidden mechanical device by which a magician works a trick or a gambler controls a game of chance.
Electronics Informal. a capacitor formed by intertwining two insulated wires.

verb (used with object)

to equip or embellish with unnecessary features, especially in order to increase salability, acceptance, etc. (often followed by up): to gimmick up a sports car with chrome and racing stripes.

verb (used without object)

to resort to gimmickry, especially habitually.

Origin of gimmick

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30; origin uncertain

OTHER WORDS FROM gimmick

gim·mick·er, noun gim·mick·y, adjective un·gim·mick·y, adjective

Words nearby gimmick

Example sentences from the Web for gimmicky

British Dictionary definitions for gimmicky

gimmick
/ (ˈɡɪmɪk) /

noun

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

Derived forms of gimmick

gimmickry, noun gimmicky, adjective

Word Origin for gimmick

C20: originally US slang, of unknown origin