trappings

[ trap-ingz ]

noun

, (used with a plural verb)

1. articles of equipment or dress, especially of an ornamental character.

   Synonyms: apparel, attire, raiment, costume

2. conventional adornment; characteristic signs:

   trappings of democracy.

3. Sometimes trapping. an ornamental covering for a horse; caparison.

trappings

/ ˈtræpɪŋz /

plural noun

1. the accessories and adornments that characterize or symbolize a condition, office, etc

   the visible trappings of success

2. a ceremonial harness for a horse or other animal, including bridles, saddles, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of trappings¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; trap ², -ing ¹, -s ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of trappings¹

C16: from trap ²

Example Sentences

Did you see “Conclave,” a pulpy entertainment that, because of its fancy trappings, seems smarter than it actually is?

From Los Angeles Times

Here were all the trappings of grand opera and none of the substance.

From Los Angeles Times

Amazon touted the sparsely furnished studio and un-flashy graphics as a refreshing departure from the typical horse-race network trappings, on the other hand, focusing instead on discussion and other media round-ups.

From Salon

In some ways, the event had the trappings of a normal short film festival.

From Los Angeles Times

It has all of the trappings of a WWE match and has many in the press giddy with spreading their, ahem, insight.

From Salon

Related Words

• accouterment
• equipment
• paraphernalia