noun
Uncommon
gimmick
GIHM-ihk
Gimmick (noun) means a clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value. Example: “The talking packaging was just a gimmick to boost sales.”
noun
1
A clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value.
"The talking packaging was just a gimmick to boost sales."
"Critics said the film's 3D effects were a gimmick with no real purpose."
verb
1
To fit or rig something with a hidden trick or device.
"The magician had gimmicked the deck so the trick card always came out on top."
How to use gimmick
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA flashy trick or feature meant to grab attention, often implying it's more style than substance.
When to use it
Usually slightly negative — calling something a gimmick suggests it's shallow or a sales trick.
Common pairings
marketing gimmick
just a gimmick
gimmick to attract attention
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Word forms
- Plural
- gimmicks
- Third person singular
- gimmicks
- Past tense
- gimmicked
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The talking packaging was just a _____ to boost sales.
Etymology
Origin unclear — possibly linked to "magic" or to "gimme", first recorded in early-20th-century American carnival and stage-magic slang.
Class of 1900
gimmick joined the language around 1900.
See the full Class of 1900 →
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “gimmick” mean?
The word “gimmick” means a clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value. In plain terms, a flashy trick or feature meant to grab attention, often implying it's more style than substance.
How do you pronounce “gimmick”?
“Gimmick” is pronounced GIHM-ihk (/ˈɡɪm.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “gimmick” in a sentence?
Here is “gimmick” used in a sentence: “The talking packaging was just a gimmick to boost sales.”
What part of speech is “gimmick”?
Depending on how it is used, “gimmick” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “gimmick” come from?
The word “gimmick” dates back to around 1900. Origin unclear — possibly linked to "magic" or to "gimme", first recorded in early-20th-century American carnival and stage-magic slang.
Is “gimmick” a common word?
“Gimmick” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “gimmick” have?
“Gimmick” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a clever trick, feature, or gadget used mainly to attract attention rather than add real value.
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