Applause for trick is absurd (8)

I believe the answer is:

claptrap

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'is absurd' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'applause for trick' is the wordplay.
'applause for' becomes 'clap' (I can't explain this - if you can you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'trick' becomes 'trap' (I've seen this before).
'clap'+'trap'='CLAPTRAP'

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(Other definitions for claptrap that I've seen before include "Utter rubbish" , "Bunk" , "Balderdash" , "Cobblers" , "Absurd or nonsensical talk or ideas" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times and the Irish Times (Crosaire).

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