paraphernalia Definition
- 1miscellaneous articles, especially the equipment needed for a particular activity
- 2personal belongings
Using paraphernalia: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paraphernalia" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The detective found drug paraphernalia in the suspect's apartment.
Example
She packed all her camping paraphernalia in the car.
Example
The magician's paraphernalia included a deck of cards and a top hat.
paraphernalia Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with paraphernalia
the clothing, jewelry, and other personal property that a bride brings to her husband at marriage
Example
The bride's wedding paraphernalia included a diamond necklace and a pearl bracelet.
the equipment used for fishing, such as rods, reels, and lures
Example
He packed all his fishing paraphernalia for the weekend trip.
the products and tools used for grooming and personal care, such as makeup, hairbrushes, and razors
Example
She spent hours organizing her beauty paraphernalia on the bathroom counter.
Origins of paraphernalia
from Medieval Latin 'paraphernalia', meaning 'property of a married woman beyond her dowry'
Summary: paraphernalia in Brief
The term 'paraphernalia' [ˌpærəfəˈneɪliə] refers to miscellaneous articles or personal belongings, especially those required for a particular activity. Examples include drug paraphernalia, camping paraphernalia, and magician's paraphernalia. It also extends to phrases like 'wedding paraphernalia,' 'fishing paraphernalia,' and 'beauty paraphernalia,' which denote specific types of equipment or personal property.
