tinsel

noun

ˈtin(t)-səl How to pronounce tinsel (audio)
Definition of tinselnext
as in glitter
something attractive but lacking in substance a book that examines popular fame and finds it to be very disposable tinsel

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of tinsel Beneath red tinsel and in the dim glow of club lighting, six young couples kiss, each seemingly wrapped up in their own little worlds. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 22 July 2026 A lot of ornaments and tinsel on the Christmas tree. — Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2026 Hair tinsel is also offered, and everyone leaves with a swag bag. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 29 May 2026 The pale hue of her towering hairdo made the perfect complement to her bold gown—a Kevin Germanier Spring 2026 Couture design, which looked as if it were covered in colorful tufts of tinsel. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for tinsel
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tinsel
  1. glitter
  2. cotton candy
Noun
  • The translucent pink toys contain glitter and water beads and have cartoon faces.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026
  • After that comes the decision to add finishes like frost, shimmer or glitter, as well as scents like vanilla, pink champagne and seasonal scents like chai tea and caramel.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 29 Sep. 2026
Definition of glitter
Noun
  • The best new launches are leaving behind the cloying sweetness of marshmallow, cotton candy and caramel that dominated the last couple years in favor of more nuanced concoctions.
    — Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 28 Sep. 2026
  • Pink muhly grass forms seed heads that resemble clouds or cotton candy.
    — Melissa Epifano, The Spruce, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of cotton candy

Browse Nearby Words

tins
tinsel
tinselly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tinsel.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tinsel. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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