Accoustrement

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An article or piece of clothing worn as part of a particular outfit ; equipment or accessories used for a specific purpose ; additional items that complement a person's attire or gear
2. A decorative or functional item that completes a costume or uniform ; supplementary gear or apparatus associated with a certain activity ; clothing accessories that enhance or define an ensemble
3. An ornamental or practical attachment to an outfit ; tools or paraphernalia needed for a particular role or function ; ancillary apparel elements that support or improve overall dress or equipment

Etymology: The root is a verb meaning to dress or equip, and its original sense was literally clothing. Old French "accoutrer" combined "a-" with "coustre," a word for a tailor or seamstress, which came from Latin "consutor," one who sews together. The term therefore traces back to the needle and thread rather than the battlefield. The sense then widened from what a person wore to what a person carried. Armour, saddlery, and harness all came to be counted among one's accoutrements, and the term now covers the gear of almost any trade, sport, or hobby. The English verb "accoutre," meaning to equip or dress, descends from the same French source.

Synonyms: equipment, outfit, gear, apparel, attire