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Doodad - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A doodad is a casual term for a small, often unnamed object or gadget, usually when the exact name is forgotten or unimportant. It’s commonly used in informal speech.

doodad

/ˈduˌdæd/ /ˈduːdæd/

Definition:

A small, often decorative object whose name is unknown or forgotten.

Synonyms:

gadget, gizmo, thingamajig, whatchamacallit

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

essential, necessity

Common Collocations:

shiny doodad, useful doodad, decorative doodad

Derivatives:

doodads (plural)

Usage Tips:

Use "doodad" informally for unnamed small items, often with a playful or dismissive tone.

Common Phrases:

fancy doodad, little doodad, handy doodad

Etymology:

Originated in early 20th century US English as a playful reduplication of "dad" or "do."

Examples:

  • 1. She found a shiny doodad on the sidewalk.
  • 2. The gadget had so many tiny doodads attached to it.
  • 3. He handed me a mysterious little doodad from his pocket.
  • 4. Her desk was cluttered with colorful doodads and trinkets.

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