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miscellaneous

adjective

/ˌmɪsəˈleɪnɪəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of miscellaneous

Of a diverse or varied collection of things or items that do not necessarily have a common theme, category, or organization.
"The closet was filled with miscellaneous clothing and accessories."

Detailed meaning of miscellaneous

When applied to a group or set of objects, it implies that they are assorted, mixed, or made up of different elements that may not be easily classified together. Miscellaneous items can range from random objects in a drawer to various topics in a conversation or a list of unrelated tasks. This term conveys the idea of a hodgepodge or an assortment, where the components may have little in common except for their coexistence within the same collection. In essence, "miscellaneous" highlights the lack of a specific pattern or organization among the items or ideas in question, underscoring their diversity and lack of a cohesive theme.

Example sentences containing miscellaneous

1. The garage was filled with miscellaneous tools and equipment.
2. She found a box of miscellaneous trinkets at the flea market.
3. The bookstore had a section for miscellaneous reference books.
4. His backpack was full of miscellaneous items he might need.
5. The drawer held a jumble of miscellaneous office supplies.
6. The museum displayed a collection of miscellaneous artifacts.

History and etymology of miscellaneous

The adjective 'miscellaneous' finds its roots in the Latin language. It originates from the combination of two Latin words: 'miscere,' meaning 'to mix,' and 'lanx,' which translates to 'dish' or 'container.' In ancient Rome, 'miscellanea' referred to a mixture of different food items served together in a single dish. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a broader meaning, referring to a varied assortment of things or objects that were not necessarily related or categorized together. As it passed into English, 'miscellaneous' retained this sense of diversity and variety, describing a collection of items or topics that lack a common theme or organization, making it a versatile term for a wide range of subjects and objects.

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Further usage examples of miscellaneous

1. She enjoyed exploring the miscellaneous flavors at the ice cream shop.
2. The antique shop had a corner for miscellaneous curiosities.
3. The party decorations included miscellaneous balloons and streamers.
4. His collection of miscellaneous coins was impressive.
5. The thrift store had a shelf of miscellaneous knickknacks.
6. The storage closet was a mess of miscellaneous boxes.
7. They found miscellaneous ingredients in the pantry for dinner.
8. The garage sale had a table of miscellaneous household items.
9. The magazine featured a section on miscellaneous travel tips.
10. The flea market had a booth selling miscellaneous jewelry.
11. The attic was filled with miscellaneous old family heirlooms.
12. The garage contained a pile of miscellaneous car parts.
13. She picked up a bag of miscellaneous crafting supplies.
14. The museum's basement held miscellaneous historical documents.
15. The bakery offered a tray of miscellaneous pastries.
16. He had a collection of miscellaneous seashells from his travels.
17. The gift shop had a display of miscellaneous souvenirs.
18. The library had a section for miscellaneous reference materials.
19. The garden had a bed of miscellaneous wildflowers.