gewgaw etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English gewgaw (c. 1400), of uncertain origin.
  • Possibly from Old French joujou ("toy") or Dutch geuweghel ("trinket").
  • Some etymologists also suggest a connection to the Old Norse term gaukr ("fool"), as the term was often used to refer to trivial or worthless items.

Meaning and Origin:

A gewgaw is a small, cheap, or flashy ornament or trinket. It is typically regarded as a trifle or something of little value.

The term initially appeared in the late 14th century to describe toys or playthings. Over time, its meaning has broadened to include any type of trivial or insignificant object.

Usage:

  • The room was cluttered with colorful gewgaws.
  • This jewelry is just a bunch of gewgaws that I don't need.
  • She decorated the tree with gewgaws and ornaments.

gewgaw relate terms

  • joke

    Etymology The word joke originates from the Middle English term jopen meaning to j

  • gaud

    Etymology and Meaning of Gaud The origin of the word gaud traces back to the Middle E

  • novelty

    Etymology Old French nouvelete Latin novellus new fresh Proto Indo European n

  • sweet

    Etymology The word sweet comes from the Old English word swēte which itself evolve

  • chivalry

    Etymology The word chivalry is derived from the Old French word chevalerie which in

  • bead

    Etymology The word bead comes from the Old English word bede which means prayer T

  • fair

    Etymology The word fair originates from the Old English word fæger meaning beauti

  • Nice

    Etymology The word nice is derived from the Old French word nice which itself comes

  • curry

    Etymology The word curry is derived from the Tamil word kari which means sauce or

  • shambles

    Etymology Middle English schamel from Old North French eschamel escamel from Medieva

  • inexorable

    Etymology The word inexorable comes from the Latin word inexorabilis which means u