Schnickschnack (SHNIK-shnahk) Meaning “knick-knack,” “trinket,” or “fussy extras” From Low German schnacken, meaning “to chat,” with a playful repeated sound. By the 19th century, schnickschnack was being used for unnecessary little extras or empty chatter. In Oma’s kitchen, it’s the fancy gadget you don’t strictly need but secretly enjoy anyway.