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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alicia Keys built her brand around the intersection of wellness-meets-beauty, and Ciara’s approach feels more mature, targeting women who want effective skincare without the bells and whistles. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 15 June 2025 Bieber didn’t want the images to have too many bells and whistles. Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 9 June 2025 Read on for details on the latest bells and whistles coming to Apple's user interface. Alain Sherter, CBS News, 9 June 2025 Will Trump want all the security bells and whistles? Tara Copp, Los Angeles Times, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for bells and whistles

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bells and whistles was in 1968

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Cite this Entry

“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

bells and whistles

plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not necessary
a new car with lots of bells and whistles

More from Merriam-Webster on bells and whistles

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