snake oil

noun

1. any of various liquid concoctions of questionable medical value sold as an all-purpose curative, especially by traveling hucksters.
2. Slang. deceptive talk or actions; hooey; bunkum:

   The governor promised to lower taxes, but it was the same old snake oil.

Other Words From

• snake-oil adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of snake oil¹

An Americanism dating back to 1925–30

Idioms and Phrases

see under banana oil .

Example Sentences

He instead lied, complained, pushed snake oil cures and worried more about the effects of the pandemic on his re-election prospects than the health of the American people.

From Salon

We have all heard much about the male loneliness crisis, and how masculinity grifters like Andrew Tate, Joe Rogan and Jordan Peterson exploit their audience's gender insecurities to sell them snake oil and right-wing politics.

From Salon

Then, these same brands dutifully patent an expensive snake oil antidote for poisoning you.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump cultural IBS is a real condition brought about by listening to Trump, his minions and those who wish to make money selling his snake oil elixirs at tent revivals across the nation.

From Salon

“You abused your position and you’re a charlatan who used and is still using your prior position in office to peddle a snake oil that’s been proven to be junk time and time again.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• nostrum