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mishmash

noun

/ˈmɪʃˌmɑʃ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of mishmash

A jumbled or haphazard mixture or combination of various elements, often resulting in a chaotic or disorganized whole.
"The city's architecture was a mishmash of modern skyscrapers and historic buildings."

Detailed meaning of mishmash

It implies a lack of coherence, order, or unity. A mishmash can be a mixture of different styles, ideas, or objects that do not naturally go together, creating a sense of confusion or inconsistency. It can also refer to a hodgepodge of unrelated or contradictory elements that have been combined without a clear structure or purpose. The term is often used to describe a collection, composition, or situation that lacks harmony, uniformity, or a clear direction. In essence, a mishmash represents a jumbled assortment where various elements clash or compete for attention, resulting in a disjointed or messy overall impression.

Example sentences containing mishmash

1. The art exhibit was a mishmash of abstract and realistic paintings.
2. The room was filled with a mishmash of furniture from different eras.
3. The restaurant's menu was a mishmash of cuisines from around the world.
4. The fashion show showcased a mishmash of styles, ranging from vintage to futuristic.
5. The playlist at the party was a mishmash of different genres, confusing the guests.
6. The project presentation was a mishmash of unrelated ideas and concepts.

History and etymology of mishmash

The term 'mishmash' has an intriguing etymology that reflects its chaotic and jumbled nature. It is believed to have originated in the 15th century and has its roots in the Middle English word 'mish,' which means 'to mix' or 'to blend.' This Middle English word itself can be traced back to Old French, where 'meschacier' meant 'to mix in a disorderly manner.' The second part of 'mishmash' comes from the word 'mash,' which originally referred to a soft mixture of ingredients. When combined, 'mish' and 'mash' form a word that vividly conveys the idea of a haphazard and disorganized mixture or combination of various elements, resulting in a chaotic whole. The etymology of 'mishmash' encapsulates its essence as a term describing a jumbled assortment of things.

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Further usage examples of mishmash

1. The novel attempted to blend elements of mystery, romance, and science fiction, resulting in a mishmash of genres.
2. The garden was a mishmash of plants, with no clear theme or arrangement.
3. The conversation became a mishmash of voices, as everyone tried to speak at once.
4. The website design was a mishmash of fonts, colors, and layouts, lacking a cohesive visual identity.
5. The group's performance was a mishmash of dance styles, making it hard to follow.
6. The antique shop had a mishmash of odd trinkets and collectibles, creating a sense of disarray.
7. The classroom's decorations were a mishmash of student artwork and educational posters.
8. The project team's collaboration was a mishmash of conflicting ideas and approaches.
9. The party decorations were a mishmash of colors and styles.
10. Her wardrobe was a mishmash of vintage and modern clothing.
11. The recipe called for a mishmash of spices and herbs.
12. The movie's plot felt like a mishmash of different genres.
13. The artwork on the wall was a mishmash of abstract and realism.
14. The meeting agenda was a mishmash of unrelated topics.
15. The garden was a mishmash of flowers and vegetables.
16. Their music playlist was a mishmash of genres and eras.
17. The restaurant's menu was a mishmash of cuisines.
18. The bookshelf was a mishmash of novels and non-fiction.
19. The puzzle pieces were a mishmash of colors and shapes.
20. The street market offered a mishmash of handmade crafts.
21. The apartment's decor was a mishmash of styles.
22. The conversation turned into a mishmash of opinions.
23. The computer code was a mishmash of different languages.
24. The project's timeline was a mishmash of conflicting dates.
25. The travel itinerary was a mishmash of destinations.
26. The website design was a mishmash of fonts and colors.
27. The jigsaw puzzle pieces formed a mishmash of images.
28. The city's architecture was a mishmash of old and new buildings.