Bobble and bauble are two words that are pronounced in the same way but are spelled differently and have different meanings, which makes them homophones. We will examine the definitions of the words bobble and bauble, where these words came from and some examples of their use in sentences.
Bobble has two, distinct definitions. First, bobble may mean a ball of material, usually wool, that is used to decorate clothing, hats or home furnishings. Bobble is also used as a verb to mean to fumble a ball, or to jitter in a bouncing motion. A bobblehead is a toy consisting of a figure with a large head poised on a spring, which bobs. Related words are bobbles, bobbled, bobbling. The word bobble first appeared in the 1800s as a diminutive of the word bob.
A bauble is a small decoration, usually something brightly colored or gaudy. A bauble is something inexpensive and inconsequential, designed to briefly holds one’s attention. The word bauble is derived from the Old French word, baubel, meaning a trinket or toy.
Examples
PARENTS at South Hills Nursery in Corsham got their knitting needles into gear this month to help create around 200 hats for the Bath RUH baby bobble hat appeal. (The Gazette and Herald)
While it’s clear that James did indeed bobble the ball, the recent enforcement of this specific rule played a larger part in James’ touchdown being over-turned than it may have in years past. (The Business Insider)
First it was advent calendars, then Christmas crackers, now baubles are the latest festive staple to get a fancy facelift, so you can adorn your tree – or treat your guests – with dangling decorations filled with mini make-up and beauty products. (The Belfast Telegraph)
Actor Chris Zylka presented the hotel heiress with the gargantuan pear-shaped bauble on a ski slope in Aspen last weekend when he proposed. (The Kansas City Star)
Enjoyed reading about these homophones? Check out some others we covered: