odds and ends
1 of 1phrase/ˈɑdz ənd ˈɛndz/
1
various small things that have no importance or value
The idiom "odds and ends" has been in use since at least the 17th century and likely originates from the idea of miscellaneous or leftover items being a collection of various "odds" (unmatched or irregular items) and "ends" (small fragments or remnants). This phrase is used to refer to a collection of small, miscellaneous, or unrelated items or things. It is used to imply that these items are not part of a larger, organized whole and may be of varied importance or value.
- We packed just about everything, but probably left some odds and ends behind.
- I found a drawer full of odds and ends—paperclips, buttons, and old keys.
- After moving, they had a box of odds and ends that didn't fit into any category.
- The garage was filled with tools, paints, and various odds and ends.
- She likes to collect odds and ends from her travels as souvenirs.