What does hokum mean?
Hokum refers to nonsense or foolish talk, often used to describe something considered absurd or meaningless. The term is often used informally or colloquially to express skepticism or dismissal of an idea or statement. It can be used to describe a wide range of situations, from a politician's empty promises to a new age guru's teachings. The word is often used in American English and is considered a colloquialism. Hokum is a useful word for expressing skepticism or criticism in a lighthearted or humorous way. It is often used in everyday conversation to describe situations where someone is speaking or acting foolishly.
nounNonsense or foolish talk.
- Foolish or meaningless talk
- Something considered foolish or absurd
"The comedian's jokes were dismissed as hokum by the skeptical audience."
"The politician's promises were labeled as hokum by his opponents."
"The new age guru's teachings were dismissed as hokum by skeptics."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hokum
The origin of the word 'hokum' is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. It may be related to the word 'hoax,' which refers to a deceitful or false statement. The word 'hokum' has been used in American English since at least the 1940s to describe nonsense or foolish talk.
How hokum is actually used
Informal or colloquial usage, often used to describe something considered foolish or absurd.