trappings

[ trap-ingz ]
See synonyms for trappings on Thesaurus.com
noun(used with a plural verb)
  1. articles of equipment or dress, especially of an ornamental character.

  2. conventional adornment; characteristic signs: trappings of democracy.

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

Origin of trappings

1
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at trap2, -ing1, -s3

Other words for trappings

Words Nearby trappings

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use trappings in a sentence

  • Its pages are filled with the purple gowns of kings and the scarlet trappings of the warrior.

  • A gilded coach, drawn by the most beautiful horses in the richest trappings, sweeps along the streets—a gorgeous vision.

  • In these days bold scoundrels die brilliantly in the chariot of vice with the trappings of luxury.

    Juana | Honore de Balzac
  • They were cursed by the Church as trappings of the Devil, inciting the wearer to foul deeds and intrigue.

    The Medici Boots | Pearl Norton Swet
  • The princess herself was mounted on a snow-white steed, with diamond and ruby trappings.

    Rudy and Babette | Hans Christian Andersen

British Dictionary definitions for trappings

trappings

/ (ˈtræpɪŋz) /


pl n
  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

Origin of trappings

1
C16: from trap ²

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012