trinkum-trankum (C1)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈtrɪŋkəm ˈtræŋkəm/
Definition
A thing whose name is unknown or forgotten, often something trivial or of little value. It can also refer to a gadget or device with a complicated or obscure purpose.
Examples
The antique shop was full of trinkum-trankums that nobody could identify.
She found an old trinkum-trankum in her grandfather's toolbox, but had no idea what it was used for.
How to Use trinkum-trankum
- trinkum-trankum thing (noun phrase)
- an object with a mysterious or obscure purpose — "The old trinkum-trankum thing in the corner of the room had been there for decades."
- trinkum-trankum device (noun phrase)
- a device or machine with a specific purpose — "The new trinkum-trankum device was so complicated that nobody could figure it out."
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