I'm sure you are wondering why I am researching the word "whatnot". It's really simple. My husband has turned some very unique decorative goblets as well as small containers and I haven't a clue how to market them. What's a product without a category?
For some reason the word "whatnot" popped into my mind. So I did a little homework and found several definitions, but liked the more in depth explanation provided by wiseGeek.
The term “whatnot,” used to refer to a small, usually inconsequential object, dates from 1540. Ornaments and other decorations may be referred to collectively with this term, and in 1808, the term began to describe the piece of furniture used to hold various items as well. A number of furniture designs fall under this general category, but a typical whatnot has open shelves, often supported by decoratively carved pillars, and it is designed to display objects. The open shelved display has, of course, been around since long before 1808, and has been referred to by other names including the French etagere
Let's recap. A "whatnot" can be an ornament or other decoration as well as open shelving.
Ummm. Well what the heck is a "knickknack" or "bric-a-brac"?
My conclusion is that a "whatnot", "knickknack" or "bric-a-brac" are different names for the same thing: "a miscellaneous collection of small articles commonly of ornamental, sentimental or antiquarian value".
What's in a name? "Whatnot", "Knickknack", "Bric-a-Brac.....Looking for some category inspiration!