Bauble

A bauble is a showy but inexpensive piece of jewelry or trinket. It often refers to a decorative object that is considered frivolous, superficial, and of little value or importance. Baubles can also be used as ornaments or decorations, particularly during festive occasions. The term highlights something that is attractive on the surface but lacks substance or real worth, representing a distraction from more significant matters. Ultimately, a bauble is often a small, insignificant item, enjoyed briefly for its visual appeal. This definition captures both the literal and figurative senses of the word.

Bauble meaning with examples

• The child was delighted with the shiny bauble that dangled from the Christmas tree, its glitter captivating him for hours. It was just a cheap decoration, but brought much joy. This demonstrates how something seemingly insignificant can have a positive effect. The bauble was eventually replaced, once it broke.
• She realized the expensive necklace she coveted was just a bauble, not a symbol of love. She desired the feelings it might evoke, such as the thought of her beauty. But the bauble represented an empty pursuit of prestige, a shallow goal without any meaning. This demonstrates its shallowness.
• The street vendor sold colorful baubles to tourists, hoping to profit from their fleeting interest in these trinkets. People bought baubles, for they were of little monetary value. Tourists purchased them for memories and show. They were considered souvenirs.
• During the party, the focus shifted from the meaningful conversations to the dazzling but superficial baubles hanging on the chandelier. The baubles distracted from serious conversation. The decorations were flashy, though.