Quick answer
Bricabrac means a variant spelling of bric-a-brac, meaning decorative odds and ends. It is usually pronounced BRIK-uh-brak, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Bricabrac
Bricabrac means a variant spelling of bric-a-brac, meaning decorative odds and ends. It belongs to odd objects and contraptions and works best in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality. It is still understandable today, but it usually sounds more vivid and deliberate than ordinary modern vocabulary.
At a glance
objectscontraptionscuriosities
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, bricabrac refers to a variant spelling of bric-a-brac, meaning decorative odds and ends. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Bricabrac feels absurd because its repeated sounds give it a bounce or wobble that makes the word feel half descriptive and half sound effect.
Origin and history
Bricabrac is generally traced to spelling variant of bric-a-brac from French. In modern use, the history matters less than the strong tone the word still carries.
Is this word still used today?
Bricabrac is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
Example sentences
- The column dismissed the whole rumor as bricabrac.
- In the novel, one bricabrac is enough to derail the dinner party.
- She used bricabrac in the essay because the plain modern word felt too bland.
- The teacher paused to explain bricabrac before asking the class to use it in context.
- They kept repeating bricabrac because the sound of it was almost as memorable as the meaning.
When should you use this word?
Use bricabrac when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality.
Similar words
bric-a-brac, knickknacks, curios, trinkets
Opposite or contrasting words
streamlined decor, minimal furnishing
Common questions
- What does bricabrac mean? a variant spelling of bric-a-brac, meaning decorative odds and ends.
- How do you pronounce bricabrac? It is commonly pronounced BRIK-uh-brak.
- Is bricabrac still used today? Bricabrac is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
- When should you use bricabrac? Use bricabrac when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in describing tools, curiosities, and mysterious things with personality.
- What words are similar to bricabrac? Similar words include bric-a-brac, knickknacks, curios, and trinkets.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.