Barnumism is a term that refers to the practice of using sensationalism and exaggeration in order to attract attention to something. This term is often used to describe the showmanship tactics of P.T. Barnum, the famous American entertainment promoter. Synonyms for this word include hucksterism, quackery, and charlatanism. These words all suggest a certain level of deceit or trickery in the way that information is presented. Other related terms include hyperbole, puffery, and aggrandizement, all of which refer to the art of exaggerating the qualities or importance of something in order to make it seem more impressive to others.