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Glite Dictionary
nicknack

nicknack

7.0
A small object kept for decoration rather than use
  • noun
  • /ˈnɪkˌnæk/
translation icon : adorno
  • During the trip, he bought several nicknacks as souvenirs from the local markets.

Examples

  • The gift shop was filled with charming nicknacks that caught her eye.

  • My particular favorite is the 'Marketplace' with all its nicknacks and 'stuff.'

    Blog text (8)

  • Author: Nicknack

    Blog text (8)

  • I will lovingly wrap your nicknacks with bubble paper.

    Liar Liar (1997)

  • She has a collection of beautiful nicknacks displayed on her shelves.

Synonyms

knickknack
vsnicknack
16 4.2

A small cheap object people keep to decorate a home

focuses on being kept for ornament rather than any practical use
knick
vsnicknack
  • Informal
5 8.2

A small decorative object like a tiny statue or ornament

is the standard term for a small ornament kept for decoration
bric-a-brac
vsnicknack
2 8.7

Small pretty objects kept for decoration or as souvenirs

refers to a single ornament kept for decoration rather than function
whatnot
vsnicknack
  • Archaic
1 7.6

A small shelf or stand that holds little decorations

means a single decorative piece kept for ornament not for use
trumpery
vsnicknack
  • Archaic
9.9

Cheap objects that look nice but have little value

is the neutral term for small ornaments without judging value

How Decorative

artwork
81 3.0
ornament
102 1.6
trinket
43 3.5
nicknack
7.0
keepsake
22 3.9
plain
50 2.5

Surface Forms

nicknack singular
nicknacks plural

Etymology

The word nicknack (often spelled knickknack) is a playful old word made by repeating a short sound — nick + knack — so it felt light and small, like 'a small thing'. So, nicknack came to mean a small decorative object kept more 'for looks' than for use.