bells and whistles

plural noun

Synonyms of bells and whistlesnext
: 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
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And, fortunately, a lot of the bells and whistles never came into play since people kept getting voted out with idols in their pockets, or were unable to find idols and advantages that were hidden (literally) right underneath them. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 22 May 2026 Official visit season is here and will pick up in earnest next weekend, when programs across the country roll out all their flashiest bells and whistles. Grace Raynor, New York Times, 21 May 2026 Dreamy chef’s kitchen with all the bells and whistles? Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026 This recipe shows simple summer okra doesn't need any bells and whistles to shine. Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 7 May 2026 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 28 May. 2026.

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

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