adjective / noun
gimcrack
JIM-krak/ˈdʒɪmˌkræk/
Something showy but cheaply made or of little use.
The souvenir shop fills its shelves with glittering plastic gimcracks.
Etymology
The word first described a showy person, then a mechanical contrivance, and later a trifle or knick-knack. Its origin is uncertain; the selected sense combines showiness with little practical value.
More examples
- The gimcrack jewelry looks expensive until its gold coating peels.
- He clears the dusty gimcracks from the mantel.
- The store's gimcrack furniture wobbles despite its fancy trim.
Forms
gimcrack · gimcracks
gimcrackery noun — Showy objects or decoration of little value.