Trinkets: meaning, definitions and examples

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trinkets

[ˈtrɪŋkɪts ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

small decorative items

Trinkets are small decorative items that are usually cheap and not very valuable. They are often used as gifts or souvenirs.

Synonyms

baubles, knick-knacks, ornaments.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trinkets	Small and cheap decorative items, often with little practical use or value. These are typically used to decorate spaces or as personal keepsakes. She collected trinkets from all her travels and displayed them on a shelf
knick-knacks	Small decorative objects or ornaments, commonly displayed in homes on shelves, tables, or mantles. Generally used in a neutral or slightly negative manner to imply clutter or lack of function. The living room was filled with all sorts of knick-knacks she had accumulated over the years
ornaments	Decorative items with a specific purpose of beautifying objects, spaces, or items. These can be more valuable or artistic compared to other small decorations. The garden was beautiful, embellished with several stone ornaments
baubles	Showy but cheap and often gaudy decorations, usually associated with holiday decorations or flashy jewelry that lacks real value. During the Christmas season, the tree was adorned with colorful baubles

Examples of usage

I bought a few trinkets at the souvenir shop.
She collects trinkets from all over the world.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

jewelry of little value

Trinkets can also refer to cheap jewelry or accessories that are not considered valuable.

Synonyms

cheap accessories, costume jewelry.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trinkets	Use this word when referring to small, decorative items that might not have much value but are interesting to look at. Often used to describe souvenirs or small keepsakes. She filled her shelves with trinkets from her travels. The market was full of colorful trinkets.
costume jewelry	Ideal for describing imitation jewelry that is made to look like real jewelry but is generally more affordable. It's often worn for special occasions or parties. She wore costume jewelry to complement her dress for the gala. Costume jewelry can be both stylish and inexpensive.
cheap accessories	This phrase is suitable for describing inexpensive fashion items like belts, earrings, or bracelets that are affordable and often trendy. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying low quality. She bought some cheap accessories to match her outfit for the party. The store has a huge selection of cheap accessories.

Word

Description / Examples

trinkets

Use this word when referring to small, decorative items that might not have much value but are interesting to look at. Often used to describe souvenirs or small keepsakes.

She filled her shelves with trinkets from her travels.
The market was full of colorful trinkets.

costume jewelry

Ideal for describing imitation jewelry that is made to look like real jewelry but is generally more affordable. It's often worn for special occasions or parties.

She wore costume jewelry to complement her dress for the gala.
Costume jewelry can be both stylish and inexpensive.

cheap accessories

This phrase is suitable for describing inexpensive fashion items like belts, earrings, or bracelets that are affordable and often trendy. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying low quality.

She bought some cheap accessories to match her outfit for the party.
The store has a huge selection of cheap accessories.

Examples of usage

She wore trinkets on her wrists and fingers.
He gave her a trinket necklace for her birthday.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'trinket' comes from the Middle English word 'trinquette,' which means a little thing.
It has roots in the Old French word 'trinquer,' meaning to tinkle or make a sound, which relates to the jingling of small items.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, trinkets often symbolize friendship or love, with people giving them as tokens of affection.
Trinkets can reflect local traditions, like traditional jewelry or crafts that carry cultural stories.

Collecting

Many people start collecting trinkets as children; it’s a fun way to keep memories of places visited or experiences had.
Some collectors specialize in specific types of trinkets, such as souvenir spoons, glass figurines, or vintage charms.

Art and Craft

Trinkets are often created using a variety of materials, including metal, plastic, and glass, showcasing the creativity of artists.
Making your own trinkets, like friendship bracelets or painted rocks, can be a fun arts and crafts project.

Psychology

Owning trinkets can evoke nostalgia, as they often serve as reminders of specific moments or people in our lives.
Psychologically, having small items that hold meaning can boost happiness and provide comfort.

Translations

Translations of the word "trinkets" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bugigangas

🇮🇳 गहने

🇩🇪 Kleinigkeiten

🇮🇩 pernak-pernik

🇺🇦 дрібнички

🇵🇱 drobiazgi

🇯🇵 小物

🇫🇷 bibelots

🇪🇸 baratijas

🇹🇷 ıvır zıvır

🇰🇷 장신구

🇸🇦 حلي

🇨🇿 drobnosti

🇸🇰 drobnosti

🇨🇳 小饰品

🇸🇮 drobne reči

🇮🇸 smáhlutir

🇰🇿 ұсақ-түйек заттар

🇬🇪 წვრილმანი

🇦🇿 xırda əşyalar

🇲🇽 baratijas

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,769, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22766 potion
22767 intimating
22768 hydrogenated
22769 trinkets
22770 japonica
22771 debauchery
22772 homing
...