noun
paraphernalia
pair-uh-fer-NAY-lee-uh/ˌpærəfərˈneɪliə/
Equipment and other items associated with a particular activity.
Fishing paraphernalia surrounds the open tackle box.
Etymology
“Beside the dowry” originally described a woman's property apart from her dowry. These additional possessions came to suggest odds and ends, leading to the broader meaning of equipment or belongings.
In context
trade, but really a perfect arsenal and magazine. It was dusty and cobwebbed, crammed with stands of arms, tents, uniforms in bales, batteries of Maxims and mountain-guns, and all the paraphernalia
More examples
- Our camping paraphernalia fills the trunk.
- The counter is cluttered with coffee-making paraphernalia.
- He packs his brushes, paints, and other paraphernalia before class.
Forms
paraphernalia
Similar words
- equipment
- Emphasizes useful tools and supplies rather than miscellaneous associated items.
- gear
- Often refers to practical equipment for work or outdoor activities.
- accessories
- Refers to supplementary items rather than the main equipment.