Dingbats

/ˈdɪŋbæts/ noun

Definition

Plural of dingbat; multiple silly people, or multiple decorative typographic symbols.

Etymology

Simple English pluralization of dingbat by adding '-s'.

Kelly Says

The plural form reminds us that some words carry their pop culture baggage—for many people, 'dingbats' instantly evokes 1970s television rather than typography.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Plural form carries the same gendered derogatory baggage as 'dingbat'—used to dismiss groups of women as collectively unintelligent or flighty.

Inclusive Usage

Avoid entirely as a descriptor of people. In design/typography, use 'ornamental characters' or 'decorative symbols'.

Inclusive Alternatives

["ornamental characters","decorative symbols","typographic ornaments"]

Related Words

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