razzle-dazzle

[ raz-uhl-daz-uhl ]

noun

, Informal.

1. showiness, brilliance, or virtuosity in technique or effect, often without concomitant substance or worth; flashy theatricality:

   The razzle-dazzle of the essay's metaphors cannot disguise its shallowness of thought.

2. Chiefly Football. deceptive action typically consisting of a series of complex maneuvers, as a double reverse or hand-off, usually executed in a flashy manner:

   a team relying more on power and speed than razzle-dazzle.

3. confusion, commotion, or riotous gaiety:

   He thrived on the lights, the crowds, the razzle-dazzle of the Las Vegas Strip at night.

adjective

1. impressively opulent or decorative, especially in a new way; showy; flashy; eye-catching:

   a shopping center lined with razzle-dazzle boutiques.

2. energetic, dynamic, or innovative:

   razzle-dazzle technology; a razzle-dazzle sales pitch.

razzle-dazzle

/ ˈræzəlˈdæzəl; ˈræzməˈtæz /

noun

1. slang.
   noisy or showy fuss or activity

Word History and Origins

Origin of razzle-dazzle¹

First recorded in 1890–95; rhyming compound based on dazzle

Word History and Origins

Origin of razzle-dazzle¹

C19: rhyming compound based on dazzle

Related Words

• amazing
• astonishing
• astounding
• breathtaking
• daring
• dazzling
• dramatic
• eye-catching
• fabulous
• fantastic
• grand
• magnificent
• marvelous
• miraculous
• remarkable
• sensational
• splendid
• striking
• stunning
• thrilling