What does the bells and whistles mean with all the bells and whistles?

Sometimes it seems that everything comes in three versions: basic, advanced and "bells and whistles". From marketing, a product that comes with all the bells and whistles, usually indicates the upper part of the line, full of various but useful accessories and upgrades. This term is often used to describe top electronic products designed specifically for customers who can afford immediate upgrades. These accessories can be a function with a limited but useful application, such as an improved audio system or an increased memory capacity for a top -of -the -line computer.

Sometimes you can hear the term "bells and whistles" when buying a new car or house. For example, the vehicle has performed on a separate car, it can only be equipped with standard features of the manufacturer. The customer might want to negotiate with the seller and get a similar vehicle with all available other features. This could mean added electric windows and door locks, sunroof, rear spoiler, CD player, cruise control nEbo even heated cup holders. A new home can be complemented by bells and whistles such as alarm system, centralized control unit, state -of -the -art kitchen equipment or a heated driveway. This may not be strictly necessary, but serves as attractive tricks to attract consumers.

The origin of the phrase seems to be an American, although few resources agree on the original device that inspired it. Some believe it concerns literal bells and whistles found on wheelchairs and personal locomotives of the 19th century. Having both warning devices seemed to be excessive, but some passengers and passers -by could feel safer because they knew all these devices were present.

It is also possible that this sentence has a military origin, as in the naval tradition of naval visitors on board and the use of bells as warning devices. However, the first bells and whistles are likely to makeIly either to Carnival Calliopes or theater authorities that both represented many others that were rarely used, but still quite decorative and attractive. The idea to go across the peak with an expensive or mostly decorative accessory could be inspired by an incorrect view of the fully outstrated theater body or Calliope.