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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.
But, despite its $40 price tag and plastic construction, this Star Wars Yoda lightsaber isn't short on bells and whistles. Chris McMullen, Space.com, 28 Nov. 2025 Just press a single button—there are no extra bells and whistles like options to adjust the water temperature or flavor profiles—and the Ratio Six blooms the coffee grounds, then uses a slower flow for an even better extraction. Mark Marino, Bon Appetit Magazine, 27 Nov. 2025 With unique built-ins like a phone and cup holder, a USB charging port, a bag hook, and a zippered front laptop pocket, this carry-on has all the bells and whistles that make investing in a new piece of luggage a no-brainer. Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 26 Nov. 2025 The plan includes a full playground with lots of Disney bells and whistles as well as a new community center and amphitheater for use by the entire Altadena population. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 17 Nov. 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 Nov. 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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