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

Some streams of Buddhism have the trappings of worship, rituals, and semi-divine beings, but others do not.

From The Daily Beast

But the old city, site of the bull run, has the inevitable trappings of a theme park for aficionados of the vicarious kind.

From The Daily Beast

Twees are not hipsters or ravers or neo-grungers, though you could have trappings of all that.

From The Daily Beast

I love all the trappings of a classic heist plot: stopwatches and masks, grappling hooks and black turtlenecks.

From The Daily Beast

The façade bore all the trendy trappings of the Art Nouveau movement that swept across the European continent.

From The Daily Beast

Its pages are filled with the purple gowns of kings and the scarlet trappings of the warrior.

From Project Gutenberg

A gilded coach, drawn by the most beautiful horses in the richest trappings, sweeps along the streets—a gorgeous vision.

From Project Gutenberg

In these days bold scoundrels die brilliantly in the chariot of vice with the trappings of luxury.

From Project Gutenberg

They were cursed by the Church as trappings of the Devil, inciting the wearer to foul deeds and intrigue.

From Project Gutenberg

The princess herself was mounted on a snow-white steed, with diamond and ruby trappings.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• accouterment
• equipment
• paraphernalia