bric-a-brac
|bric/a/brac|
C1
/ˈbrɪk ə ˌbræk/
decorative odds and ends
Etymology
Etymology Information
'bric-a-brac' originates from French, specifically the phrase 'à bric et à brac', where 'bric' and 'brac' were used to denote odds and ends.
Historical Evolution
'à bric et à brac' transformed into the English word 'bric-a-brac' in the 19th century, maintaining its meaning of miscellaneous small items.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'odds and ends', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
small decorative objects or ornaments of little value.
The shelves were filled with bric-a-brac collected over the years.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/19 08:51