razzle-dazzle

noun

raz·​zle-daz·​zle ˌra-zəl-ˈda-zəl How to pronounce razzle-dazzle (audio)
1
: a state of confusion or hilarity
2
: a complex maneuver (as in sports) designed to confuse an opponent
3
: a confusing or colorful often gaudy action or display
razzle-dazzle adjective

Examples of razzle-dazzle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This upfront also definitely lacked the razzle-dazzle and star power of years past. Joe Otterson, Variety, 20 May 2025 Every summer across the USA, companies come together to present classic plays, world premiere operas, and razzle-dazzle musicals to diverse audiences. Ellen Carpenter, AFAR Media, 19 May 2025 Glean does this by anchoring in outcomes with no razzle-dazzle or hype, much like their CEO. Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025 Exhibition Hub’s 90 or so shows, which have been seen by 10 million people worldwide, balance razzle-dazzle and high-tech video projections alongside interactive replicas, photo opps, and historical text. John Wenzel, Denver Post, 3 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for razzle-dazzle

Word History

Etymology

reduplication of dazzle

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of razzle-dazzle was in 1885

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Cite this Entry

“Razzle-dazzle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/razzle-dazzle. Accessed 30 May. 2025.

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