knickknack

or nick·nack

[ nik-nak ]

noun

1. an ornamental trinket or gimcrack; a bit of bric-a-brac.

Other Words From

• knickknacked adjective
• knickknacky adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of knickknack¹

1610–20; gradational compound based on knack in obsolete sense “toy”

Example Sentences

“Every knickknack I have, everything I don’t use, I’m selling,” said Ms. Gamble, 84, who has asked officials in neighboring Douglas County about applying for subsidized housing.

From New York Times

Alithea, a literary scholar on a work trip in Istanbul, is the latest fated candidate to summon the djinn — purchasing the blue and white glass bottle that contains him from a knickknack shop.

From Seattle Times

His office at Trump Tower was so crammed with memorabilia, including Shaquille O’Neal’s gargantuan sneakers, visitors had to edge their way inside to avoid knocking down a knickknack.

From New York Times

Now what was the crown jewel of professional sports franchises in the area may as well be a knickknack.

From Washington Post

A knickknack shelf by the entrance holds some waving lucky cats, a model motorcycle, a small collection of Uncle Lou baseball caps and what must be a month’s supply of Vita tea in individual cartons.

From New York Times

Related Words

• bauble
• bric-a-brac
• curio
• ornament
• souvenir
• trinket