nick-nack

A small nick-nack sits on the bookshelf.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small decorative object: A "nick-nack" refers to a small, often ornamental item, typically of little intrinsic value, used for display or personal enjoyment.
   • A trinket or bauble: It can denote a cheap or frivolous item, such as a souvenir or knick-knack, kept for sentimental or aesthetic reasons.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She collected various nick-nacks from her travels, displaying them on the shelf. (Small decorative objects from different places.)
  • The shop sold inexpensive nick-nacks like keychains and miniature statues. (Trinkets of little monetary value.)

Advanced Usage

• "a nick-nack shelf": a shelf specifically for displaying small ornamental items.

  • He built a nick-nack shelf in the living room to showcase his collection. (A shelf for decorative trinkets.)

• "nick-nack collection": a group of such items gathered over time.

  • Her nick-nack collection included seashells, tiny figurines, and painted rocks. (A set of small decorative objects.)

Variants and Related Words

• Knick-knack (n): an alternative spelling of "nick-nack," meaning the same small decorative object.

  • The antique store had a dusty knick-knack in the corner. (A small ornamental item.)

• Nicknackery (n): a rare term for a collection or trade of nick-nacks.

  • The market was full of nicknackery from various cultures. (Assorted small decorative items.)

Synonyms

• Trinket: a small, cheap ornament or piece of jewelry.
• Bauble: a showy but worthless ornament.
• Curio: an unusual or interesting object, often collected.
• Novelty: a small, often amusing item.

Related Idioms

• "Nick-nack paddywhack": a phrase from the traditional song "This Old Man," referring to a playful counting rhyme, but not directly related to the noun meaning.
  • The children sang "nick-nack paddywhack, give a dog a bone." (A nonsense phrase in a children's song.)

Notes on Usage

• The word "nick-nack" is often spelled "knick-knack" in modern English, though both are acceptable.
• It is typically used in informal contexts and may imply a sense of whimsy or triviality.