Merceries

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Small goods and assorted wares sold in shops; articles offered for sale that are typically household necessities or small everyday items; merchandise consisting mostly of dry goods and notions
2. Items such as textiles, sewing supplies, and other small retail products found in shops; general goods offered in commerce often used in daily life; shop stock comprising various consumable and useful goods
3. Various small retail articles including fabrics and sewing accessories sold commercially; goods encompassing essentials for domestic or personal use; typical items stocked in general stores or mercantile establishments

Etymology: "Merceries" is the plural of "mercery", a noun for small everyday goods that came into English from French "mercerie". The French term in turn comes from "mercier", a dealer in small wares, and it traces back to Latin "merx", meaning merchandise. The plural form simply refers to several such goods or several shops selling them.

Synonyms: mercery goods, silks