tinsel: Meaning and Definition of

tin•sel

1. a glittering metallic substance, as copper or brass, in thin sheets, used in pieces, strips, threads, etc., to produce a sparkling effect cheaply.
2. a metallic yarn, usually wrapped around a core yarn of silk, rayon, or cotton, for weaving brocade or lamé.
3. anything showy or attractive with little or no real worth; showy pretense: The actress was tired of the fantasy and tinsel of her life.
4. a fabric, formerly in use, of silk or wool interwoven with threads of gold, silver, or, later, copper.

1. consisting of or containing tinsel.
2. showy; gaudy; tawdry.

1. to adorn with tinsel.
2. to adorn with anything glittering.
3. to make showy or gaudy.