"Kit and kaboodles" is a popular expression that refers to a collection of miscellaneous items or a group of people. The spelling of "kaboodles" may surprise some, as it includes the unusual double o and the silent e. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be spelled /kəˈbuːdəlz/. This unique spelling may have originated from the combination of the words "caboodle" and "kit," which led to the formation of "kaboodle" and then "kaboodles." Nonetheless, it remains an established part of the English language.
Kit and kaboodles is a colloquial expression used to refer to the entirety, the whole package, or a miscellaneous collection of things or items. This phrase is an extension of the term "kit" which historically meant a collection of tools or equipment needed for a particular purpose. The addition of "kaboodles" is a whimsical way of emphasizing the multitude or abundance of items contained within the collection.
The term is often used in informal contexts to imply a large and varied assortment of objects, often with the implication of disorganization or clutter. It can refer to physical objects such as a box full of assorted trinkets or a jumble of belongings, or it can be used more metaphorically to describe a group of diverse ideas, tasks, or responsibilities.
The expression "kit and kaboodles" suggests a sense of chaos or confusion due to the abundance and disarray of the items or concepts involved. It conveys the idea that everything is thrown together or lumped into one big pile, without any particular order or logical arrangement. The phrase is typically employed in a lighthearted or casual manner to describe situations where a wide range of diverse elements are present, often creating a sense of overwhelm or disorder.