noun
psychobabble
SEYE-kohbabl
Psychobabble (noun) means Psychology jargon used pretentiously to describe ordinary problems, making them sound more complex than they are. Example: “His speech was full of psychobabble about "actualizing his authentic self.”
noun
1
Psychology jargon used pretentiously to describe ordinary problems, making them sound more complex than they are.
"His speech was full of psychobabble about "actualizing his authentic self.""
How to use psychobabble
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEmpty, jargon-heavy talk that borrows psychology terms to sound deep without saying much.
When to use it
Usually used dismissively or mockingly.
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- psychobabbles
- Past tense
- psychobabbled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His speech was full of _____ about "actualizing his authentic self."
Etymology
Blend of psycho- and babble, first used around 1975 by writer R.D. Rosen.
Rhymes for psychobabble
See all rhymes for psychobabble →Frequently asked questions
What does “psychobabble” mean?
The word “psychobabble” means psychology jargon used pretentiously to describe ordinary problems, making them sound more complex than they are. In plain terms, empty, jargon-heavy talk that borrows psychology terms to sound deep without saying much.
How do you pronounce “psychobabble”?
“Psychobabble” is pronounced SEYE-kohbabl (/ˈsaɪkəʊbab(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “psychobabble” in a sentence?
Here is “psychobabble” used in a sentence: “His speech was full of psychobabble about "actualizing his authentic self.".”
What part of speech is “psychobabble”?
“Psychobabble” is a noun.
Where does the word “psychobabble” come from?
The word “psychobabble” dates back to around 1975. Blend of psycho- and babble, first used around 1975 by writer R.D. Rosen.
