What does bricabrac mean?
Bricabrac refers to a diverse assortment of miscellaneous items, often gathered for their decorative appeal rather than their practical utility. This can include vintage household items, collectible trinkets, and other knick-knacks. The term is commonly used to describe items displayed in a home or store for aesthetic purposes, but it can also imply a certain level of clutter or disorganization. Bricabrac can range from valuable antiques to inexpensive, mass-produced items. The word's somewhat informal tone and connotation of triviality distinguish it from more serious terms for collections or possessions.
nounA collection of miscellaneous items, often decorative but of little value or utility. Bricabrac can refer to a variety of objects gathered for their aesthetic appeal rather than practical use.
- A collection of miscellaneous decorative items.
- Miscellaneous items considered as a group, especially if of little value.
"The antique shop was filled with bricabrac, including vintage vases, old clocks, and dusty figurines."
"The shelf was cluttered with bricabrac that her grandmother had collected over the years."
"The flea market vendor sold all sorts of bricabrac, from old toys to broken appliances."
Bricabrac is often treated as a mass noun and does not typically change form when pluralized.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bricabrac
The term 'bricabrac' originates from the French phrase 'bric-à-brac', which is an onomatopoeia mimicking the clinking of various objects. This phrase evolved into a single word in English, retaining its meaning as a collection of miscellaneous items.
Usage notes
The term often carries a slightly informal or even pejorative connotation, suggesting that the items are of little practical value. It can be used to describe both a curated collection of decorative items and a haphazard assortment of junk.