Fandangle

/ˈfændæŋɡəl/ noun

Definition

A showy or unnecessary ornament or gadget; a useless decoration or frivolous trinket.

Etymology

Origin uncertain; possibly a variant of 'fandango' (a lively dance) influenced by 'dangle,' or derived from 'fandango' which itself comes from Spanish. The word suggests something showy and impractical.

Kelly Says

'Fandangle' sounds made up because its origin is actually mysterious—it might come from fandango or be pure English nonsense words smooshed together, and that uncertainty makes linguists love it!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.