Yiddish Word of the Day: “Tchotchke”

Definition: A small object that is decorative rather than strictly functional; a trinket.
Example Sentence: "Her shelves are filled with tchotchkes from her travels around the world."

Yiddish Fun Fact: Tchotchke is one of those words that doesn't just describe an object; it paints a picture. The word "tchotchke" actually comes from a Slavic word meaning "toys," but in Yiddish, it has evolved to mean a small, somewhat unnecessary object. It has a playful connotation, reminding us of a child's collection of small, prized possessions. Tchotchkes could be anything from a ceramic cat to a plastic Eiffel Tower souvenir, and their value often comes more from sentiment than functionality. This unpretentious appreciation for the little things is a hallmark of Yiddish culture and language. Remember, one person's tchotchke might just be another person's treasure!