Collectable: meaning, definitions and examples

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collectable

 

[ kəˈlɛktəbl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

objects, items

Collectable refers to items that are sought after for their rarity, historical significance, or value among enthusiasts and collectors. These can include coins, stamps, toys, or memorabilia that are often valued for their uniqueness and condition. Collectable items can appreciate in value over time, making them an investment for some. The term can also describe items produced in limited quantities to appeal to collectors.

Synonyms

collectible, memorabilia, valuable item

Examples of usage

  • That stamp is a rare collectable worth thousands.
  • She enjoys collecting vintage toys as her favorite hobby because they are valuable collectables.
  • Many people find joy in attending collectable fairs to discover unique pieces.
Context #2 | Noun

items, objects

A collectable is an item that has value due to its rarity, age, or desirability among collectors. Collectables can include a wide range of objects, such as antiques, stamps, coins, and art pieces. The market for collectables can fluctuate, influenced by trends and the popularity of certain types of items. People often buy collectables either for personal enjoyment or as investments.

Synonyms

artifact, collectible item, treasure

Examples of usage

  • His house is filled with different collectables from around the world.
  • She found a rare collectable at the flea market.
  • The auction house specializes in vintage collectables.

Translations

Translations of the word "collectable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colecionável

🇮🇳 संग्रहणीय

🇩🇪 sammelbar

🇮🇩 dapat dikumpulkan

🇺🇦 колекційний

🇵🇱 kolekcjonerski

🇯🇵 コレクタブル

🇫🇷 collectionnable

🇪🇸 coleccionable

🇹🇷 koleksiyonluk

🇰🇷 수집 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للجمع

🇨🇿 sběratelský

🇸🇰 zberateľný

🇨🇳 可收藏的

🇸🇮 kolekcionarski

🇮🇸 safnunar

🇰🇿 жинақтауға болатын

🇬🇪 კოლექციონერი

🇦🇿 toplanılması mümkün

🇲🇽 coleccionable

Word origin

The word 'collectable' originates from the verb 'collect,' which comes from the Latin 'collectus,' meaning 'gathered together.' The suffix '-able' denotes something that is worth doing or capable of being done. The combination of these terms suggests something that can be gathered or accumulated, especially with value and significance. The use of 'collectable' in English began to gain traction in the mid-20th century as hobbies around collecting various items became increasingly popular. With the rise of consumer culture, more items began to be produced specifically for collectors, leading to the formal recognition of categories of collectables. Today, the term is widely used in various contexts, including business, entertainment, and personal collections, reflecting a diverse array of interests and objects.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,142 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.