What does malarkey mean?
Malarkey refers to nonsense or foolish talk, often used to describe something considered absurd or untrue. The term is commonly used in informal settings or in a humorous way to express skepticism or dismissal. Malarkey can be used to describe a wide range of situations, from a politician's empty promises to a friend's outlandish excuses. The word's origins are uncertain, but it has been in use since the mid-20th century. Malarkey is a useful word for adding emphasis or humor to a conversation, and its informal nature makes it a popular choice for casual conversation.
nounNonsense or foolish talk.
- foolish or absurd talk
- something considered foolish or absurd
"The politician's speech was full of malarkey, and no one took it seriously."
"The comedian's jokes were dismissed as malarkey by the skeptical audience."
"The new policy was malarkey, and everyone knew it wouldn't work."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of malarkey
The origin of malarkey is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. Some sources suggest a connection to the Irish word 'malarkey,' meaning 'nonsense' or 'foolish talk.' The word gained popularity in the 1940s and has since been widely used in informal settings.
How malarkey is actually used
Malarkey is often used informally or in a humorous way to describe something considered foolish or absurd. It can be used to express skepticism or dismissal.