Gewgaw

usgb/ˈɡjuːɡɔː/
noun

A showy thing, especially one that is useless or worthless.

She is always buying gewgaws for her house that have no practical use.
Visual representation of "gewgaw" - A showy thing, especially one that is useless or worthless.

Often appears as...

  • buy a gewgaw
  • sell gewgaws
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "gewgaw"
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Negative Connotation

Use 'gewgaw' to imply something is flashy but superficial and not valuable.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The market stalls were filled with colorful gewgaws that caught tourists' eyes.
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Consumerism Critique

'Gewgaw' often signals a critique of excessive buying of unnecessary, decorative items.

Illustration for Consumerism Critique
During Christmas, shops are brimming with gewgaws to tempt the seasonal shopper.
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Not Toys

While often attractive or entertaining, 'gewgaw' doesn't usually refer to play things like toys.

Illustration for Not Toys
My aunt's mantelpiece is cluttered with gewgaws, not a single one a child's toy.
Visual representation of the word "Gewgaw"

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