trappings

American  

[trap-ingz] / ˈtræp ɪŋz /

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. articles of equipment or dress, especially of an ornamental character.

   Synonyms:

   apparel, attire, raiment, costume

2. conventional adornment; characteristic signs.

   trappings of democracy.

3. Sometimes trapping. an ornamental covering for a horse; caparison.

---

trappings British  

/ ˈtræpɪŋz /

plural noun

1. the accessories and adornments that characterize or symbolize a condition, office, etc

   the visible trappings of success

2. a ceremonial harness for a horse or other animal, including bridles, saddles, etc

---

Etymology

Origin of trappings

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; trap ², -ing ¹, -s ³

Example Sentences

“The Housemaid” initially appears to have those trappings, slowly revealing that Nina is on a steady cocktail of antipsychotics after a trip to the psych ward.

From Salon

It was part of the trappings of Andrew's life of entitlement.

From BBC

“People who have platforms can use them to build up and inform, if they let go of some of the music industry’s trappings of capitalism and celebrity and really start focusing on communities.”

From Los Angeles Times

Now he is offering the Trumps some of those trappings in the form of a glitzy theatrical release for “Melania.”

From The Wall Street Journal

To his credit, Affleck chimed in, adding that “Adolescence,” Netflix’s fantastic, award-winning limited series, avoided all of the streamer’s typical trappings.

From Salon

Related Words

• accouterment
• equipment
• paraphernalia