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, adjectiveWords 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, adjectiveWord Origin for gimmick
C20: originally US slang, of unknown origin