Embellished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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embellished

[ɪmˈbɛlɪʃt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a decorative way

Elaborately and highly decorated; adorned with ornamental details.

Synonyms

adorned, decorated, ornamented.

Examples of usage

  • The costume was embellished with sequins and lace.
  • The walls were embellished with intricate paintings and carvings.
  • Her speech was embellished with colorful metaphors and similes.
Context #2 | Verb

with extra details

Make (something) more attractive by the addition of decorative details or features.

Synonyms

decorate, enhance, ornament.

Examples of usage

  • The designer embellished the dress with intricate embroidery.
  • She embellished her story with exaggerations and fabrications.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'embellished'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'embellished' comes from the Middle French word 'embelliss-' and the Old French word 'embelir', both meaning 'to make beautiful'. Over time, it has evolved to represent the act of adding decorative details or features to enhance the attractiveness of something.


See also: embellisher, embellishing, embellishment, embellishments, overembellish, unembellished.

Word Frequency Rank

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