knickknack

noun

knick·​knack ˈnik-ˌnak How to pronounce knickknack (audio)
variants or less commonly nicknack
plural knickknacks also nicknacks
: a small trivial article usually intended for ornament
a collection of colorful knickknacks
Known in the computer industry as tchotchkes, which is Yiddish for cheap trinkets, the knickknacks distributed in the past year have included "Love Me Tender" toilet-roll dispensers, wax eyeballs, chocolate computers and Nerf-ball launchers.Jim Carlton
Melissa Etheridge's spacious two-story home outside Los Angeles is filled with knickknacks from her life: Aside from awards and photos, there is a small collection of vintage neon clocks … and a Thelma & Louise poster signed by the cast (including a then-unknown Brad Pitt).Lynette Rice

Examples of knickknack in a Sentence

The shelves were filled with knickknacks. a variety of pretty porcelain knickknacks adorned the mantel
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.
Read on to shop our picks for the best stocking stuffers and mini delights for this holiday season—including sweet treats, cold-weather accessories, and charming knickknacks. Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 1 Nov. 2024 Special Items Whether antiques, cherished knickknacks, or heirlooms, items that are very delicate and/or precious to the customer are typically items house cleaners won’t want to mess with in order to cut down the risk of damaging them. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2024 Mirroring the look of a vertical bookcase, this would be right at home holding your favorite paperbacks, plants, and other knickknacks in addition to your kicks. Lauren Arzbaecher, Architectural Digest, 24 Oct. 2024 The stylish rattan organizer basket is the perfect way to discreetly store away toiletries or knickknacks, while our ivory lush bath rug adds the perfect amount of texture to your space, according to shoppers. Megan Schaltegger, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for knickknack 

Word History

Etymology

reduplication of knack

First Known Use

1682, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of knickknack was in 1682

Dictionary Entries Near knickknack

Cite this Entry

“Knickknack.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/knickknack. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

knickknack

noun
knick·​knack ˈnik-ˌnak How to pronounce knickknack (audio)
: a small ornamental object

More from Merriam-Webster on knickknack

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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