How Do You Spell PARAPHERNALIA?

Pronunciation: [pˌaɹəfənˈe͡ɪli͡ə] (IPA)

The word "paraphernalia" is spelled with three syllables, /ˌpærə.fəˈneɪ.liə/. The stressed syllable is the second one, pronounced as /fə/. The first syllable is pronounced as /pær/ and the third one is pronounced as /liə/. This word refers to a collection of items that are necessary for a particular activity or task. It is commonly used to mean the equipment, tools or gear required for hobbies, sports, or professions. Despite its tricky spelling, "paraphernalia" is a useful and common word.

PARAPHERNALIA Meaning and Definition

  1. Paraphernalia is a noun that denotes a collection or set of objects, items, or gear that are associated with a particular activity, occupation, or role. These items are typically necessary or useful in performing a task or pursuing an interest. The word often implies that these objects are numerous or diverse in nature and are used together as a set or issued as a whole.

    In a broader sense, paraphernalia can also refer to personal belongings, equipment, accessories, or attire that are associated with a specific profession, lifestyle, or hobby. For example, a mechanic's paraphernalia might include various types of tools, overalls, and safety gear, while a photographer's paraphernalia could consist of various lenses, tripods, and camera accessories.

    The term is commonly used in legal contexts to refer to items that are related to the production, distribution, or consumption of illegal substances. In this context, paraphernalia refers to objects such as pipes, scales, packaging materials, or other items used in conjunction with drug use or production.

    Overall, paraphernalia refers to a comprehensive or assorted set of objects that are essential, useful, or related to a specific occupation, activity, or lifestyle.

  2. The clothing, jewels, ornaments, &c., which a wife brings with her at her marriage, over and above her dowry; ornaments of dress in general; trappings or finery generally.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for PARAPHERNALIA *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for PARAPHERNALIA

Etymology of PARAPHERNALIA

The word "paraphernalia" originated from Late Latin "paraphernalia" which referred to property or belongings that a bride brings with her when marrying into a new household. The word is a combination of the Greek prefix "para-" meaning "beside" or "beyond", and the Latin word "phernum" meaning "dowry" or "bridal furniture". Over time, the meaning of the term expanded to include personal belongings or equipment associated with a particular activity or occupation.

Similar spelling words for PARAPHERNALIA

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