Collectables Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งณ
collectables
[kษหlษktษb(ษ)lz ]
Definition
items for collecting
Collectables are items that people seek out and acquire as part of a hobby. These items can range from stamps and coins to action figures and vintage cars.
Synonyms
collectibles, items for collecting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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collectables |
This term is commonly used in British English to refer to items that people gather because of their value or interest.
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collectibles |
The American English version of 'collectables,' used to describe items that are collected due to their rarity, value, or personal interest.
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items for collecting |
A more general and descriptive phrase that can be used to describe any objects that are gathered or saved due to personal interest or value.
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Examples of usage
- Jane's collection of collectables includes rare coins and antique dolls.
- Tom spent hours at the flea market searching for new collectables to add to his collection.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Collecting items like Funko Pop figures has become a cultural phenomenon, creating communities of enthusiasts.
- Television shows such as 'Antiques Roadshow' have sparked interest in collecting antiques and vintage items.
- Video games, such as Pokรฉmon, have spawned a massive market for collectable cards with rare characters.
Psychology
- Collecting can provide a sense of achievement and fulfillment, as individuals find joy in completing sets or obtaining rare items.
- Some experts believe that collecting relates to our instinct to preserve history and personal memories.
- The act of collecting may also help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, similar to hobbies like gardening or painting.
Economics
- The market for collectables is vast, with some items appreciating significantly over time, leading to investment opportunities.
- Certain collectables, especially vintage toys or trading cards, can be worth thousands of dollars if properly maintained.
- Collecting trends can be influenced by pop culture, media exposure, and economic factors, changing the value of items over time.
History
- Collecting dates back to ancient civilizations, where people gathered unique coins, gemstones, and artifacts.
- Royalty and nobility historically collected art and rare objects to showcase wealth and status.
- The Great Exhibition of 1851 in London highlighted the importance of collecting, showcasing international artifacts and innovations.
Origin of 'collectables'
Main points about word origin
- The roots of 'collectables' come from the word 'collect,' which means to gather together or accumulate.
- The suffix '-ables' indicates that these items can be collected, emphasizing their value to collectors.
- The term became popular in the mid-20th century as hobbyist collecting gained traction.
The term 'collectables' originated in the early 20th century, derived from the verb 'collect' with the addition of the suffix '-able'. People have been collecting items of interest for centuries, with the concept of collectables evolving over time to include a wide variety of objects.
See also: collect, collected, collectible, collectibles, collecting, collection, collective, collectively, collectivize, collector, recollect.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,079, 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.
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