Literary notes about folderol (AI summary)
In literature, “folderol” is often employed as a dismissive term to denote triviality, nonsense, or excessive fuss. Writers use it both in humorous dialogue and satirical commentary to undercut what is seen as superfluous or pompous formalities—for instance, characters brush off elaborate procedures or absurd claims by labeling them as mere “folderol” ([1], [2]). At times, the word punctuates conversational exchanges as a sharp retort to exaggeration or needless embellishment ([3], [4], [5]), while in other contexts it underscores the contrast between pragmatic concerns and fanciful distractions ([6], [7], [8]). This versatile use not only enlivens dialogue but also subtly critiques societal or institutional pretensions.
- Do you mean to tell me he gets away with that folderol?”
— from Mystic Isles of the South Seas. by Frederick O'Brien - He stands out as one of the most penetrating satirists and resonant scoffers at folderol that this continent nourishes.
— from Shandygaff A number of most agreeable Inquirendoes upon Life & Letters, interspersed with Short Stories & Skits, the whole most Diverting to the Reader by Christopher Morley - "'Now, Angeline, you shet up with your folderol,' he will say, with the most imperturbable good humor.
— from Bessie's Fortune: A Novel by Mary Jane Holmes - A little more moleing——” “A little more folderol!” exclaimed Mr. Gryce, losing his temper.
— from The Leavenworth Case by Anna Katharine Green - "Cat'sfoot-fiddlestick-folderol-fudge!" blazed the old woman.
— from Mrs. Tree by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards - Housekeeping is of more account than all this folderol.
— from A Little Girl in Old Salem by Amanda M. Douglas - And now she was to exchange the good, old-fashioned way for what she termed "folderol," and for a time she did not like it.
— from Gretchen: A Novel by Mary Jane Holmes - The story of his being a British soldier, and that story, too, about his grandmother, was all folderol.
— from The Liberty Girl by Rena I. Halsey
