Gimmicks

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈɡɪm.ɪks/

Definitions

1. A series of inventive tricks or devices intended to capture interest
2. A clever or novel method used to attract interest or attention
3. An unusual or inventive tactic designed to draw notice or curiosity

Etymology: "Gimmicks" is the plural of "gimmick", and the singular's origin is unknown. Its exact history is lost, which leaves a few competing ideas: one suggests it may be a rough anagram of "magic", with the letters rearranged into something more slangy, and another links it to "gimme", the informal demand for something to be handed over. Neither can be confirmed, so they remain guesses rather than established origins. What is clear is the sense the word settled on: a device, trick, or novelty meant mainly to attract notice rather than to serve a practical purpose. Whatever its source, the term has the bright, slightly sly feel of the showman's trade, which is perhaps why both guesses point toward tricks and demands for attention.

Synonyms: tricks, devices, ploys

Antonyms: sincerity, truthfulness