[Middle English pappe, probably from Latin papilla; see papilla.]
pap 2 (pāp) n.
Soft or semiliquid food, as for infants.
Material lacking real value or substance: TV shows that offer nothing but pap.
Slang Money and favors obtained as political patronage: "self-seeking politicians primarily interested in patronage, privilege, and pap"(Fiorello H. La Guardia).
[Middle English, from Old French papa, from Latin, children's word for food.]