1. Equipment or materials associated with a particular activity:
* Example: "The artist's studio was filled with paraphernalia, including paints, brushes, and canvases."
2. Articles or objects associated with a particular person or group:
* Example: "The detective found a bag full of drug paraphernalia."
3. (Informal) Accessories or ornaments, especially those that are showy or flamboyant:
* Example: "She wore all her usual paraphernalia - sunglasses, a scarf, and a big hat."
4. (Legal) Items used in connection with illegal activities:
* Example: "The police seized a large amount of drug paraphernalia from the suspect's apartment."
In general, "paraphernalia" refers to items that are not essential, but are used in connection with a particular activity or person. It can have a negative connotation, especially when used in the context of illegal activities.
It's important to consider the context in which you encounter the word "paraphernalia" to understand its specific meaning.