trappings

American  

[trap-ingz] / ˈtræp ɪŋz /

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.

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trappings British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of trappings

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

Example Sentences

Wrangling Gellar free from her inadvertent nostalgic trappings is no simple task.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

He posted photographs that showed off trappings of luxury without ever revealing his face.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

“And then … you’d come home and paparazzi and all the sort of the trappings of, you know, living in that space.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

But the former military academy student has long shown a fascination for martial trappings, often surrounding himself with soldiers and visiting military sites.

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

The fifth trunk belonged to someone named Grigori Antonovich and yielded more of the same ordinary trappings.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros

Related Words

• accouterment
• equipment
• paraphernalia