How Do You Spell CLIPJOINT?

1. A clipjoint refers to an establishment, typically a bar or nightclub, that employs deceitful practices to swindle its customers. A derogatory term that emerged in the early 20th century, it is often associated with places of ill repute or organized crime. The primary intention of a clipjoint is to deceive unsuspecting patrons and extract exorbitant amounts of money from them through various fraudulent methods.

   These establishments create an atmosphere of allure, using attractive hostesses, flashy lights, and enticing entertainment to entrap customers. Once lured inside, patrons are manipulated into spending excessive amounts of money on watered-down drinks, overpriced services, or phony entertainment. In some cases, clipjoints may employ scam artists who operate in collusion with management, promoting gambling or illegal activities that guarantee a financial loss for the unsuspecting victims.

   The term "clipjoint" derives from the practice of "clipping," which originally referred to the act of surreptitiously cutting a victim's pocket to steal their valuables. In a metaphorical sense, clipjoint signifies an establishment that metaphorically "clips" or bilks people out of their money, exploiting their naivety or vulnerability.

   Due to their exploitative nature, clipjoints often operate on the fringes of legality and may be subject to periodic crackdowns by law enforcement agencies. Nevertheless, they continue to exist in various forms, adapting to modern trends and taking advantage of unsuspecting victims who are enticed by the promise of a good time while falling prey to their dishonest practices.

Common Misspellings for CLIPJOINT

The word "clipjoint" originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is a slang term used to describe a disreputable establishment, often a bar or nightclub, where customers are deliberately overcharged or "clipped" of their money through various means of deception or fraud.

The origin of the term comes from the practice of unscrupulous bar owners or operators who would use a "clip" or special device to manipulate the mechanical cash registers of the time. By adjusting the mechanism, they could cheat customers by making them pay more for drinks or entertainment without their knowledge. This practice led to the term "clipjoint" being used to describe such establishments.

Over time, the term has expanded to include any location or situation where people are tricked or swindled out of their money.