The word "trinket" is spelled with six letters and pronounced /ˈtrɪŋkɪt/. The initial "t" sound is followed by the "r" sound, which is pronounced with the tip of the tongue curled back towards the roof of the mouth. The "i" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "i" in "sit", while the "e" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "e" in "pet". Finally, the last syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by a "t" sound. "Trinket" refers to a small decorative object.
A trinket refers to a small, decorative item that holds little to no functional value but is often treasured for its sentimental or aesthetic appeal. Typically, trinkets are crafted with delicate materials such as precious metals, gemstones, or fine glass, and are designed to be visually appealing. They often take the form of small decorative objects like pendants, charms, figurines, or ornaments.
While trinkets are not typically utilized for practical purposes, they often hold personal or symbolic significance to their owners. They can serve as mementos that commemorate a specific event, person, or place, and are often kept as cherished reminders of sentimental value. Trinkets are commonly given as gifts, especially on special occasions or to mark significant milestones in one's life.
Traditionally, trinkets have been associated with the act of collection, as many individuals acquire and display various trinkets as part of their personal assortment of keepsakes. This notion of collecting trinkets can be seen in practices such as souvenir gathering during travels or the accumulation of charms on charm bracelets. While trinkets are generally small in size, they can carry immense emotional weight for their owners, serving as tangible reminders of memories, emotions, or aspirations. Ultimately, trinkets hold a special place within the realm of personal adornment and decorative objects, transcending their modest appearance and becoming vehicles of personal expression and meaning.
Anything small and of no great value; any small ornament for the person made of gold, silver, pebble, and suchlike; a toy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "trinket" entered the English language in the late 16th century and its etymology is somewhat uncertain. It is believed to come from the Middle Dutch word "trenket", which means "a small ornament". However, the Middle Dutch term likely originated from the Middle Low German word "trinke" or "trincke", meaning "a drinking vessel" or "glass". These Middle Low German roots suggest a potential connection to the Indo-European root "dher" or "dhwer", which means "to hold or support".
Over time, the meaning of "trinket" shifted from referring to small vessels or drinking cups to small decorative objects or ornaments. Today, it is used to describe various small, often inexpensive items of little value that people might collect or use as decorations.