pom-pom

1 of 2

noun (1)

ˈpäm-ˌpäm 

1

: an ornamental ball or tuft used especially on clothing, caps, or costumes

2

: a handheld usually brightly colored fluffy ball flourished by cheerleaders

pom-pom

2 of 2

noun (2)

: an automatic antiaircraft gun of 20 to 40 millimeters mounted especially on ships

Examples of pom-pom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

His body size and arm thickness have changed, his closures are now buttons, and his intestinal pom-poms have been adjusted. —Jason Ma, Fortune, 14 Oct. 2024

With dancers in black, Gaga’s face was concealed and only her legs were visible until the accompanying dancers pulled back the pom-poms to reveal her visage. —Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 July 2024

Try this slip-on pair (also on sale) with a statement making pom-pom in a rich emerald tone. —Nneya Richards, Travel + Leisure, 3 Oct. 2024

Play with pom-poms, ghost throw pillows, and DIY garlands to hang on your mantle or banister. —Claire Hoppe, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

alteration of pompon

Noun (2)

imitative; from the sound of its discharge

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1873, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1940, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pom-pom

noun

ˈpäm-ˌpäm

1

: a fluffy ball used as trimming on clothing

2

: a handheld usually brightly colored fluffy ball waved by cheerleaders