bells and whistles

Sometimes whistles and bells

plural noun

Informal.

1. features added to a product; special parts or functions; extras.

bells and whistles

plural noun

1. additional features or accessories which are nonessential but very attractive

   my car has all the latest bells and whistles

2. additions, such as options or warranties, made to a financial product to increase its market appeal

Word History and Origins

Origin of bells and whistles¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Word History and Origins

Origin of bells and whistles¹

C20: from the bells and whistles which used to decorate fairground organs