bauble

American  

[baw-buhl] / ˈbɔ bəl /

noun

1. a showy, usually cheap, ornament; trinket; gewgaw.

2. a jester's scepter.

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bauble British  

/ ˈbɔːbəl /

noun

1. a showy toy or trinket of little value; trifle

2. Usual US name: Christmas ornament.  a small, usually spherical ornament made of coloured or decorated material which is hung from the branches of a Christmas tree

3. (formerly) a mock staff of office carried by a court jester

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Etymology

Origin of bauble

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English babel, babulle, from Old French babel, baubel, derivatives of an expressive base with varying vocalisms; compare Old French baubelet “little trinket”; bibelot

Example Sentences

Then, they moved to the solarium, which already boasted a slew of colorful and lit up greenery, which they hung baubles from.

From MarketWatch

In the Old City, home to a small but vibrant Christian community and several important churches, red baubles hang from some trees, shopkeepers have put up Christmas decorations and street vendors peddle warm chestnuts.

From Barron's

The light is glinting on the dogs' baubles.

From BBC

Holly, 34, from Reading, hunted in charity shops and vintage fairs for foil decorations, satin baubles, tablecloths and china.

From BBC

Mr King said he also used to decorate his tree with tinsel and glass baubles.

From BBC

Related Words

• knickknack
• trinket