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.
Fewer bells and whistles and an attention to precise tailoring. Kerry Pieri, Vogue, 18 Feb. 2025 This re-recorded version of the song finally has all the bells and whistles. Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 14 Feb. 2025 When Mikala Beaver’s now husband, who is transgender, first proposed last year, the couple imagined a huge wedding with family, friends and all the bells and whistles. Leah Asmelash, CNN, 18 Jan. 2025 This Polish boat, which comes in open versions, is like a waterborne Swiss Army Knife with all the bells and whistles in a compact package. Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 21 Jan. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 27 Feb. 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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