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Synonyms

accouterment

American  
[uh-koo-ter-muhnt, -truh-] / əˈku tər mənt, -trə- /
especially British, accoutrement

noun

  1. a clothing accessory or an accessory piece of equipment: You will need sleeping bags and other accouterments for camping.

    These nautical cufflinks are the perfect accouterment to any boating enthusiast's dress shirt.

    You will need sleeping bags and other accouterments for camping.

  2. a piece of equipment carried by a soldier, excluding weapons and clothing.

  3. a characteristic feature, object, or sign associated with a particular role, situation, etc: Its members all have children, husbands, and the other accouterments of middle-class, American suburban living.

    I take the snob to be someone with an exaggerated respect for wealth and all the other accouterments of status.

    Its members all have children, husbands, and the other accouterments of middle-class, American suburban living.


Etymology

Origin of accouterment

First recorded in 1540–50; from Middle French accou(s)trement; see origin at accouter, -ment


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But the extra accouterment hasn’t held him back.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 2, 2025

This fragrant, crispy, classic accouterment — which is welcome alongside anything from lasagna to something entirely non-Italian or Italian American — takes the number-one spot.

From Salon ● Dec. 28, 2022

Indeed, for all its sci-fi accouterment and “Hunger Games” vibe, “Westworld” is a showcase of splendid performances.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 1, 2016

She wanted something that was not only utilitarian, but also served as a stylish and discreet accouterment, so she created her own.

From Seattle Times ● May 31, 2016

This accouterment was formerly completed by a gun to defend the flock against wolves, and a stove for preparing meals.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 821, September 26, 1891 by Various

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