Whatnot - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Whatnot is a term used to refer to unspecified additional items, things, or matters of a similar kind. It is often used informally to mean and so on or other such things. Example: She bought books, stationery, and whatnot.
Definition:
Miscellaneous items or unspecified things, often used to refer to various small objects.
Synonyms:
sundries, odds and ends, bits and bobs, paraphernalia
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
essentials, necessities
Common Collocations:
and whatnot, full of whatnot, shelves of whatnot
Derivatives:
whatnots (plural)
Usage Tips:
Use "whatnot" informally to refer to assorted small items when specifics aren't important.
Common Phrases:
and whatnot, all the whatnot, bits of whatnot
Etymology:
Originated from "what not," meaning "anything else," first recorded in the 16th century as a placeholder term.
Examples:
- 1. She packed her bag with books, pens, and whatnot.
- 2. The attic was filled with old toys and whatnot from childhood.
- 3. He sells trinkets, gadgets, and whatnot at the flea market.
- 4. We chatted about work, life, and whatnot over coffee.