whatnot

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   A small unspecified object

   A small unspecified object; bric-a-brac (in plural).

   • Storage boxes—catchalls for flotsam, jetsam, whatnots and thingamajigs—are gaining new interest as decorative objects for the home.
   • Do not be distracted by the various novelty bags and whatnots of which Chanel is so fond; instead, prove your aforementioned sensible credentials by buying a boxy rectangular quilted shoulder bag with a chain strap, in black, ideally.
2. 2

   Other related objects or ideas.

   • At the lexicography club, we welcome all discussion of words and whatnot.
   • All of the cakes and whatnot have been laid out, ready for the children's birthday party this afternoon.
   • You call that a warrior? My Cobrot's engines will whip the Troopers into whatnot! She is all cobra!
3. 3

   A freestanding set of shelves on which ornaments are displayed

   A freestanding set of shelves on which ornaments are displayed; an etagere.

   • On a whatnot in a corner which had been devoted to the child's belongings were Franky's paint-box and some of his toys.
   • Herbert[…] made an elaborate inspection of the chimney-piece, the whatnot, the piano-top.
   • These hefty features were on display together with dry-point engravings, marble busts, and mahogany whatnots, which the guests now squeezed between, plumping themselves down on over-stuffed ottomans beneath gleaming crystal electroliers.

The neighborhood

• neighborwhatsit