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Malarkey

Malarkey is a brisk, bright word for nonsense, foolish talk, or empty claims. It has just enough comic bounce to make dismissal feel stylish rather than dull.

Quick facts

At a glance

Word
Malarkey
Pronunciation
muh-LAR-kee
Part of speech
Noun
Meaning
Nonsense; foolish talk
Tone
Funny, informal, dismissive
Category
Funny-Sounding Words
Origin
American English, uncertain
Usage level
Uncommon but familiar

Pronunciation

How to say it

Pronounced
muh-LAR-kee
Syllables
3
IPA
/məˈlɑːrki/
Starting letter
M

Meaning

Meaning in plain English

Malarkey means nonsense, especially the sort of talk that sounds unconvincing, exaggerated, or foolish. It is often used to dismiss excuses, inflated claims, or dramatic nonsense. The tone is usually informal and energetic.

Absurdity

Why this word feels absurd

Malarkey feels absurd because it makes foolish talk sound almost jaunty. It manages to dismiss nonsense while sounding like a phrase from someone who has seen too much and is no longer impressed.

Word history

Origin and history

The origin of malarkey is uncertain, though it is well established in American English. It rose to prominence as a vivid alternative to plain words like "nonsense" or "rubbish." Its exact ancestry may be hazy, but its modern role is clear.

Usage today

Is this word still used today?

Yes. Malarkey still appears in modern English, especially in informal speech, commentary, and political rhetoric.

Examples

Example sentences

  • The salesman's pitch was pure malarkey from start to finish.
  • She refused to sit through another hour of political malarkey.
  • "Oh, that's malarkey," he said, folding the newspaper shut.
  • In the essay, every neat slogan is exposed as marketable malarkey.

Use it well

When should you use this word?

Use malarkey when you want to reject nonsense with a little flair. It is especially good in argument, satire, journalism, and lively dialogue.

Related meaning

Similar words

  • Codswallop
  • Balderdash
  • Nonsense
  • Drivel
  • Gobbledygook

Contrast

Opposite or contrasting words

  • Truth
  • Sense
  • Substance

FAQ

Common questions

  • What does malarkey mean? It means nonsense, foolish talk, or empty claims.
  • How do you pronounce malarkey? It is commonly pronounced muh-LAR-kee.
  • Is malarkey a real English word? Yes. It is a real English word, especially common in American usage.
  • Is malarkey still used today? Yes, especially in informal speech and commentary.
  • What words are similar to malarkey? Codswallop, balderdash, drivel, and gobbledygook are close alternatives.