razzmatazz

noun

razz·​ma·​tazz ˌraz-mə-ˈtaz How to pronounce razzmatazz (audio)

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English speakers are fond of forming new words through reduplication of a base word, usually with just a slight change of sound. Think of okeydoke, fuddy-duddy, super-duper, roly-poly, fiddle-faddle, and dillydally. Another word is razzle-dazzle, formed by the reduplication of dazzle (itself a frequentative of daze). In the late-19th century, the spirit that prompted razzle-dazzle (one early meaning of which is "a state of confusion or hilarity") seems to have also inspired razzmatazz. The coiners of razzmatazz may also have had jazz in mind. Some of the earliest turn-of-the century uses of razzmatazz refer to rag-time or early jazz styles. By the mid-20th century, we'd come round to the "razzle-dazzle" sense, though we still haven't completely settled on the spelling. You might, for example, see razzamatazz.

Examples of razzmatazz in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adding to the festive razzmatazz—and unquestionably broadening the appeal of the games—Beyoncé, arguably Houston's most-famous daughter, has been drafted in as the half-time performer during the Ravens-Texans matchup. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024 The authentic storytelling these players offer, linked to nature and evoking a simple, slow lifestyle, as well as their ability to create feel-good moments around convivial occasions without the razzmatazz often surrounding fashion events is what the designer appreciates most. Sandra Salibian, WWD, 2 Dec. 2024 Boca foodie fans of Il Mulino also wanted some of that Broadway razzmatazz. Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 26 June 2024 The follies’ ensemble dance scenes with the whole cast intermittently provides the show with period fun and plenty of costuming razzmatazz. Christopher Smith, Orange County Register, 30 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for razzmatazz 

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of razzle-dazzle

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of razzmatazz was in 1917

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Cite this Entry

“Razzmatazz.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/razzmatazz. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

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