bells and whistles
plural noun
: items or features that are useful or decorative but not essential : frills
Examples of bells and whistles in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Much of the bells and whistles commonly seen in Vegas shows were absent by design.
—
Mark Gray, People.com, 12 July 2025
Don’t stress about durability—this home has all the bells and whistles to ensure a comfortable stay, including a sturdy metal roof, vinyl siding, and quality insulation to regulate the temperature on sweltering summer days or chilly nights.
—Mia Ingui, Southern Living, 10 July 2025
The Deluxe Sleeping Cars and the Excelsior Cabin are where the real bells and whistles come out with more spacious beds, freebies, and other amenities.
—Opheli Garcia Lawler, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2025
Not only will the navy stripes instantly upgrade all your summer attire, this sturdy canvas bag comes complete with all the bells and whistles.
—Footwear News, 3 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for bells and whistles
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Mark Gray, People.com, 12 July 2025
Don’t stress about durability—this home has all the bells and whistles to ensure a comfortable stay, including a sturdy metal roof, vinyl siding, and quality insulation to regulate the temperature on sweltering summer days or chilly nights.
—Mia Ingui, Southern Living, 10 July 2025
The Deluxe Sleeping Cars and the Excelsior Cabin are where the real bells and whistles come out with more spacious beds, freebies, and other amenities.
—Opheli Garcia Lawler, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2025
Not only will the navy stripes instantly upgrade all your summer attire, this sturdy canvas bag comes complete with all the bells and whistles.
—Footwear News, 3 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for bells and whistles
Cite this Entry
“Bells and whistles.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bells%20and%20whistles. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share