ENGLISH
REFERENCE

bits and bobs

idiom
Meaning

A random assortment of things; small remaining pieces and items.


Examples
SIMPLE

I have bits and bobs in my desk drawer.

CONTEXTUAL

Before moving, she packed up the bits and bobs that were scattered around the flat.

COMPLEX

The attic was filled with bits and bobs from decades past — faded postcards, rusted keys, and half-finished journals no one would ever read.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little bit of bread and no cheese

    Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).

  2. 02

    bit by a barn mouse

    tipsy; slightly drunk

  3. 03

    Bob's your uncle

    No problem, the solution is simple, there you have it, it's that easy, you have what you want, all will be well: indicates a desirable conclusion has been reached with ease.

  4. 04

    champ at the bit

    To show impatience or frustration when delayed.

  5. 05

    every bit

    Exactly, to its full degree

  6. 06

    quite a bit

    considerably

  7. 07

    two bob

    A trivially small value.

  8. 08

    wouldn't shout if a shark bit him

    To be frugal or miserly.

Last updated April 17, 2026