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bells and whistles
plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not essential : frills
Examples of bells and whistles in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Some live drumming Wednesday added some oomph, and there were the usual bells and whistles — flashy video, smoke machines, lasers.
—Piet Levy, Journal Sentinel, 9 May 2024
In recent days, video giants ranging from NBCU to Paramount to Amazon haven been sounding bells and whistles, including new audience measurement-technologies or interactive ads that let viewers shop for the products being shown on screen.
—Brian Steinberg, Variety, 7 May 2024
According to an Astrologer Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) May is always a special month for Scorpio but this year has bells and whistles on as generous Jupiter accompanies the Sun and Venus in the relationship angle of your chart.
—Debbie Frank, Peoplemag, 3 May 2024
But even without the bells and whistles, Tyler captivated throughout with electric energy and seasoned showmanship, adding light comedic touches while addressing the crowd between songs.
—Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 19 Apr. 2024
Luckily, the Zyliss Lock N’ Lift features a few bells and whistles without breaking the bank.
—Rachael Schultz, Verywell Health, 15 Apr. 2024
The resort’s getaway package includes all of the bells and whistles travelers are used to, but the twist is that plenty of non-alcoholic beverages are available, like fresh coconut water, mocktails, and agua frescas, perfect for hydrating and resetting your mood.
—Dominique Fluker, Essence, 12 Apr. 2024
The facials start at the not-inexpensive rate of $500, but include the bells and whistles that are—in my opinion—worth paying for, like microcurrent, LED therapy, and extractions.
—Annie Blay, Allure, 11 Apr. 2024
Where to eat: There are no bells and whistles at Steffani, an old-timey, relaxed daytime diner in the heart of Pärnu, but there is an eclectic menu and locals setting the world to rights.
—Anya Meyerowitz, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Apr. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'bells and whistles.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1968, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of bells and whistles was
in 1968
Dictionary Entries Near bells and whistles
Cite this Entry
“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 24 May. 2024.
Kids Definition
bells and whistles
plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not necessary
a new car with lots of bells and whistles
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