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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of trappings

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

Example Sentences

But if her firing says anything, it may be less about why she lost the job — and more about how quickly the trappings of power can vanish once she did.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

“And then … you’d come home and paparazzi and all the sort of the trappings of, you know, living in that space.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 4, 2026

But the former military academy student has long shown a fascination for martial trappings, often surrounding himself with soldiers and visiting military sites.

From Barron's • Mar. 1, 2026

“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 • Jan. 30, 2026

I tried to pull their hands away from him to relieve the pain I saw in his face, but the trappings of the priest’s costume entangled me and so I could do very little.

From "Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya

Related Words

• accouterment
• equipment
• paraphernalia