razzle-dazzle

UK: /ˌræz^əlˈdæz^əl/ US: /ˈræzəlˈdæzəl/ ,(raz′əl daz′əl)

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2025

raz•zle-daz•zle /ˈræzəlˈdæzəl/   n. [uncountable]

1. showy or fancy technique or effect, esp. such technique done to distract or confuse.

adj. 

2. marked by razzle-dazzle:
   a razzle-dazzle performance.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025

raz•zle-daz•zle  (raz′əl daz′əl), n. [Informal.]

1. Informal Terms showiness, brilliance, or virtuosity in technique or effect, often without concomitant substance or worth;
   flashy theatricality:
   The razzle-dazzle of the essay's metaphors cannot disguise its shallowness of thought.
2. Informal Terms, Sport [Chiefly Football.] deceptive action typically consisting of a series of complex maneuvers, as a double reverse or hand-off, usually executed in a flashy manner:
   a team relying more on power and speed than razzle-dazzle.
3. Informal Terms confusion, commotion, or riotous gaiety.

adj. 

4. Informal Terms impressively opulent or decorative, esp. in a new way;
   showy;
   flashy;
   eye-catching:
   a shopping center lined with razzle-dazzle boutiques.
5. Informal Terms energetic, dynamic, or innovative:
   razzle-dazzle technology; a razzle-dazzle sales pitch.

• rhyming compound based on dazzle 1890–95

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

razzle-dazzle / ˈræz^əlˈdæz^əl/ noun

1. noisy or showy fuss or activity

Etymology: 19th Century: rhyming compound based on dazzle