bells and whistles

plural noun

: items or features that are useful or decorative but not essential : frills

Examples of bells and whistles in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These bells and whistles are features of a new jumbo store format that Dick’s is opening across the country. Jemima McEvoy, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 The ship is brand-new, with a long list of technological bells and whistles designed to cut back on waste and pollution (shore power and food waste biodigesters among them). Hannah Towey, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Dec. 2024 Think safari-ready leather travel trunks but with all the bells and whistles of a modern-day case. Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 19 Dec. 2024 But all these bells and whistles come at a premium, and battery life was disappointing (three weeks). Simon Hill, WIRED, 15 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for bells and whistles 

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bells and whistles was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near bells and whistles

Cite this Entry

“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 2 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

bells and whistles

plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not necessary
a new car with lots of bells and whistles

More from Merriam-Webster on bells and whistles

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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