n. & v.
--n.
1. glittering metallic strips, threads, etc., used as decoration to give a sparkling effect.
2 a fabric adorned with tinsel.
3 superficial brilliance or splendour.
4 (attrib.) showy, gaudy, flashy.
--v.tr. (tinselled, tinselling) adorn with or as with tinsel.
Derivatives:
tinselled adj. tinselly adj.
Etymology: OF estincele spark f. L scintilla