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Caboodle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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caboodle

[kəˈbuː.dəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

slang usage

The term 'caboodle' is used informally to refer to a collection or group of items. It is often found in the phrase 'the whole kit and caboodle,' meaning everything or the entire amount. This term emphasizes the totality of the collection, often used in casual conversation.

Synonyms

collection, lot, whole.

Examples of usage

  • We've got the whole kit and caboodle ready for the trip.
  • Bring your clothes and the whole caboodle to the party.
  • He packed his bag with snacks and the entire caboodle.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Kit and caboodle' is often used in popular songs and movies to describe doing something completely or to emphasize a thorough effort.
  • In 1970, the American rock band The Doors referenced the term in their song 'The Spy,' showcasing its cultural relevance.
  • The phrase has been used in early cartoons and comic strips, illustrating its playful nature in entertainment.

Literature

  • The expression 'kit and caboodle' frequently appears in literature to convey completeness in characters' actions or thoughts.
  • Charles Dickens used similar phrasing, which emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of a situation or setting.
  • Modern authors also play with the term to evoke humor or lightness in their narratives, connecting it to family and friendships.

Psychology

  • The concept of grouping objects can enhance cognitive processes, making it easier to remember associated items, similar to how 'caboodle' suggests a collection.
  • Psychologists suggest that organizing thoughts into 'caboodles' can help manage overwhelming feelings and improve clarity.
  • Children often learn better when items are grouped, which relates to how we engage with the term 'caboodle' in a playful manner.

Historical Usage

  • Caboodle emerged in print as early as the 19th century, reflecting the playful use of language during that period.
  • It has been a part of various American dialects, showcasing the rich tapestry of English language evolution.
  • Over time, the usage of 'caboodle' has shifted but it remains a fun term in casual conversations.

Origin of 'caboodle'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'caboodle' originates from the phrase 'kit and caboodle,' meaning a collection or group.
  • The word likely comes from slang in the early 19th century, combining 'caboodle' with 'kit,' which means a set or collection of tools.
  • It is believed that 'caboodle' has variations in use, such as 'boodle,' which means a large amount of something, usually in the context of money or gifts.

The word 'caboodle' originated in the early 19th century in the United States. It is thought to be a variation of 'kit and caboodle,' where 'kit' refers to a set of tools or a collection and 'caboodle' complements it as a colloquial term for a lot of things. The exact etymology of 'caboodle' is uncertain, but it may derive from 'boodle,' which means a great deal of something or a collection, originating from the Dutch word 'boedel,' meaning property or estate. As a slang term, 'caboodle' has been used in various expressions, becoming a fixture in informal speech by the mid-20th century.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,422, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.