Whatnot - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

unspecified items

The term 'whatnot' refers to a variety of unspecified things or items. It is often used to indicate that there are many other things that could also be included in a list or discussion, but are not explicitly mentioned. For example, one might say, 'You can bring snacks, drinks, and whatnot to the party,' implying additional items are welcome without detailing them all. This term is typically found in informal speech and writing, often to convey a sense of informality or disregard for precision.

Synonyms

and so on, et cetera, things.

Examples of usage

I need to pack my clothes, toiletries, and whatnot for the trip.
He spoke about his hobbies like knitting, painting, and whatnot.
We will discuss the report, budget, and whatnot at the meeting.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

'Whatnot' has appeared in various TV shows and movies, often indicating a whimsical or casual tone.
It was popularized in the sitcoms of the late 20th century, often used for comedic effect when listing items.
Contemporary usage in social chats often includes 'and whatnot' to imply additional topics in discussions.

Linguistics

The word exemplifies how English evolves to include playful or informal terms in everyday speech.
Some linguistic scholars consider it a great example of a 'filler' term used when a speaker is unsure of specifics.
'Whatnot' often reflects a casual register, making it popular in informal contexts.

History

Records show that 'whatnot' was commonly used by Victorian-era English speakers to diminish the importance of items.
It represents the shift of language towards more conversational forms post-industrial revolution, where informal communication flourished.
The word has evolved over decades, now embracing a broad range beyond its original meaning.

Psychology

Using vague terms like 'whatnot' may help reduce cognitive load during conversations, allowing for smoother dialogue.
People often use such terms when indicating a shared understanding, suggesting familiarity with the group discussion.
Psychological studies on conversation suggest filler words can increase perceived friendliness and approachability in social interactions.

Origin of 'whatnot'

Main points about word origin

The term 'whatnot' comes from the early 19th century, originally used in British English.
It is believed to be a combination of 'what' and 'not', suggesting other unspecified items.
Initially, it referred to a small shelf or stand for displaying decorative items.

The word 'whatnot' originated in the early 19th century as a colloquial term, derived from the phrase 'what not', which was itself a way of referring to various unspecified things. The term reflects a tendency in the English language to create shorthand phrases that convey broad meanings. 'Whatnot' was first recorded in print in the early 1800s, popular in contexts where speakers wished to indicate a range of items or concepts without naming them all. Over time, it became a staple in informal conversations and has been used in literature and speech to depict a relaxed or casual approach to discourse. The acceptance and continuous use of 'whatnot' in modern vernacular speaks to its utility in everyday language, often signifying a casual acknowledgement of additional information that is either understood or irrelevant to the current discussion.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,196 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32193 interbreeding
32194 cueing
32195 strafing
32196 whatnot
32197 concordat
32198 eland
32199 slandering
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Whatnot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations