Embellished: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old French 'embellir', which means to make beautiful.
• It traces back to the Latin word 'bellus', meaning pretty or handsome.
• It originally meant adding adornments to enhance the appearance of something.

Art and Literature

• In literature, embellished writing is often used to create vivid imagery or emotional response.
• Baroque art was known for its embellished style, featuring excessive details and grandeur.
• Famous novels, like those of Charles Dickens, often included embellished descriptions to enrich the story.

Fashion

• Embellished clothing features decorative elements like beads, sequins, and embroidery to enhance visual appeal.
• Runway shows often highlight pieces that are heavily embellished, showcasing creativity and luxury.
• Fashion history saw embellished garments during the Rococo period, featuring intricate designs and heavy ornamentation.

Communication

• Embroidery of a story refers to adding details that may not be entirely true to make it more interesting.
• People sometimes embellish their experiences in conversation to appear more impressive or entertaining.
• In the digital age, social media profiles are often embellished with filters and curated content to create a certain image.

Cultural Significance

• In various cultures, embellished objects like pottery or textiles are used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations.
• Many cultures value embellished storytelling, where oral traditions are passed down with expressive details.
• The concept of embellishment has both positive (beautifying) and negative (misleading) implications across different societies.

With rank #17,655, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 17653 decor
• 17654 raven
• 17655 embellished
• 17656 sedative
• 17657 indolent
• 17658 potter
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