novelty

[ nov-uhl-tee ]

noun

, plural nov·el·ties.

1. state or quality of being novel, new, or unique; newness:

   the novelty of a new job.

2. a novel occurrence, experience, or proceeding:

   His sarcastic witticisms had ceased being an entertaining novelty.

3. an article of trade whose value is chiefly decorative, comic, or the like and whose appeal is often transitory:

   a store catering to tourists who loaded up with souvenir pennants and other novelties.

adjective

1. Textiles.
   1. (of a weave) consisting of a combination of basic weaves.
   2. (of a fabric or garment) having a pattern or design produced by a novelty weave.
   3. (of yarn) having irregularities within the fibrous structure.
2. of or relating to novelties as articles of trade:

   novelty goods; novelty items.

3. having or displaying novelties:

   novelty shop.

novelty

/ ˈnɒvəltɪ /

noun

1. 1. the quality of being new and fresh and interesting
   2. ( as modifier )

      novelty value

2. a new or unusual experience or occurrence
3. often plural a small usually cheap new toy, ornament, or trinket

Word History and Origins

Origin of novelty¹

1350–1400; Middle English novelte < Middle French novelete < Late Latin novellitās newness. See novel ², -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of novelty¹

C14: from Old French novelté; see novel ²

Example Sentences

"The novelty and the strength of this analysis is that we have defined proteins that modify risk," Cruchaga said.

From Science Daily

All told, it's not just fine-dining restaurants in the U.S. that can be found embracing the culinary novelty of this Indonesian technique.

From Salon

Past shifts in food habits suggest there are two paths to the adoption of new foods: One relies on familiarity and safety, the other on novelty and excitement.

From Salon

Inside, overflowing bins of accessories sit among packaged costumes and novelty items.

From Los Angeles Times

Popular for decades as a street food, America's proudest culinary invention – the hamburger – debuted at the St. Louis World's Fair in 1904 alongside other novelties such as Dr. Pepper and ice cream.

From Salon

Related Words

• curiosity
• gimmick
• oddity
• souvenir