Definition

Something that is showy or fancy but not really important or useful.

Example

The decorations at the party were just frippery, adding little to the overall atmosphere.

Conversation

I saw some clothes at that thrift shop that looked like total frippery.

Really? I thought thrift shops were just for basic stuff.

They can be, but sometimes you find gems disguised as frippery.

True, I guess it’s all about digging through the racks!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Frippery originates from the French word 'friperie', meaning a shop selling old clothes or second-hand goods. The term is derived from 'friper', meaning to wear out or to make shabby. Frippery refers to showy or unnecessary ornamentation, often implying a lack of substance.

Memory Tip

Think of the French word for a shop selling old clothes ('friperie') to remember that 'frippery' refers to something that is showy but lacks real value.

Visually Confused Words