bells and whistles
plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not essential : frills
Examples of bells and whistles in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This recipe shows simple summer okra doesn't need any bells and whistles to shine.
—
Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 7 May 2026
The Forum stage appeared considerably small for such a sizable venue (it should be noted that the venue itself was compacted as the upper terrace was closed off), and the only bells and whistles were plumes of smoke and a screen-and-light setup.
—Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 30 Apr. 2026
Even its final bars of Gregorian chanting, one of many bells and whistles stuffed between the mawkish choruses, can’t lift this track out of the morass.
—Linnie Greene, Pitchfork, 29 Apr. 2026
Known as the brand’s signature style, these entry-level sneakers are engineered for all-day performance without the bells and whistles.
—Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2026
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Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 7 May 2026
The Forum stage appeared considerably small for such a sizable venue (it should be noted that the venue itself was compacted as the upper terrace was closed off), and the only bells and whistles were plumes of smoke and a screen-and-light setup.
—Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 30 Apr. 2026
Even its final bars of Gregorian chanting, one of many bells and whistles stuffed between the mawkish choruses, can’t lift this track out of the morass.
—Linnie Greene, Pitchfork, 29 Apr. 2026
Known as the brand’s signature style, these entry-level sneakers are engineered for all-day performance without the bells and whistles.
—Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 25 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for bells and whistles
Cite this Entry
“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 18 May. 2026.
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