Paraphernalia

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ËŒpæɹəfəˈneɪli.É™/
• Rhymes: -eɪliÉ™

Origin

The origin of the word is Ancient Greek παρά + φερνή (“things additional to a dowry”). In the propertied classes, a dowry was placed under the control of the husband, while the 'paraphernalia' which she brought with her remained the wife’s property.

Full definition of paraphernalia

Noun

1. (pluralonly) Miscellaneous items, especially the set of equipment required for a particular activity; stuff.He has an impressive collection of bicycling paraphernalia, but he doesn't ride very often anymore.
2. (archaic) Things a woman owns, apart from her dowry.

Synonyms

• (woman's possessions) parapherna