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.
Yet, even that closing portion left plenty to be desired, since the low-key ending felt pretty anticlimactic compared to the razzle-dazzle from earlier in the evening. Jim Harrington, Mercury News, 30 May 2025 Wear it on your head, as a belt, or anywhere that needs a little extra razzle-dazzle. Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 26 May 2025 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 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 9 Jun. 2025.

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