Crossword Genius

Applaud a snare? Utter nonsense! (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

claptrap

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'utter nonsense' is the definition.
'claptrap' can be an answer for 'nonsense' (informal term meaning nonsense or rubbish). I'm not certain of the 'utter' bit.

'applaud a snare?' is the wordplay.
'applaud' becomes 'clap' (synonyms).
'a snare?' becomes 'trap' (snare is a kind of trap).
'clap'+'trap'='CLAPTRAP'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for claptrap that I've seen before include "Stuff and nonsense" , "Applaud snare? - that's pretentious nonsense" , "Meaningless nonsense" , "High-sounding nonsense" , "moonshine" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app