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Embellishment: meaning, definitions and examples

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embellishment

 

[ɪmˈbɛlɪʃmənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

artistic expression

Embellishment refers to the act of adding decorative details or features to something, often to make it more attractive or interesting. It can involve intricate designs, ornamental elements, or embellishments that enhance the overall appearance of an object or piece of art.

Synonyms

adornment, decoration, embroidery, ornamentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
embellishment

Used when referring to adding extra details to make something more attractive or interesting, often with a sense of exaggeration. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

  • She added some embellishment to her story to make it more captivating.
  • The cake had intricate embellishments of flowers and leaves.
decoration

Refers to objects or designs added to something to make it look more attractive, commonly used during holidays or events, or in interior design.

  • The Christmas tree was covered in lights and decorations.
  • They spent hours putting up decorations for the party.
ornamentation

A formal term that refers to adding decorative elements, especially in architecture and art. It often implies elaborate and intricate designs.

  • The building's facade featured classical ornamentation.
  • The vase's ornamentation was exquisite and detailed.
adornment

Typically used when talking about adding something to make a person or object more beautiful or attractive. It often refers to jewelry or other decorative accessories.

  • Her elegant necklace was the perfect adornment for her dress.
  • The room was filled with adornments, making it feel luxurious.
embroidery

Used specifically for designs sewn onto fabric using thread. It can also figuratively mean adding exaggerated or fanciful details to a story.

  • The handkerchief had beautiful floral embroidery.
  • He added a bit of embroidery to his tale, making it more exciting.

Examples of usage

  • The dress was adorned with intricate embellishments that made it stand out.
  • The artist used embellishments to create a sense of luxury and elegance in the painting.
Context #2 | Noun

literary device

In literature, embellishment can refer to the addition of exaggerated or elaborate details to a story or description. It is used to enhance the narrative, create a vivid picture in the reader's mind, or add depth to characters and settings.

Synonyms

elaboration, exaggeration, hyperbole, ornamentation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
embellishment

Used when talking about adding decorative details or features to something to make it more attractive.

  • The architect added a lot of embellishments to the building's facade.
  • She loves embellishment in her clothes, adding beads and sequins to everything.
exaggeration

Often used when someone makes something seem better, larger, or more important than it really is; can have a negative connotation.

  • His story was full of exaggerations; I doubt he actually caught a fish that big.
  • She tends to exaggerate her achievements to impress others.
elaboration

Refers to providing more details and information to explain something fully.

  • The teacher asked for an elaboration on the student's answer.
  • During the meeting, she gave an elaborate explanation of the new project plan.
hyperbole

A figure of speech involving extreme exaggeration for effect or humor, not meant to be taken literally.

  • Saying 'I'm so hungry I could eat a horse' is a hyperbole.
  • The advertisement's claim was pure hyperbole, as no product could work that fast.
ornamentation

Used when adding decorations, usually physical objects, to make something more beautiful.

  • The Christmas tree was covered in beautiful ornamentation.
  • Ancient buildings often feature intricate ornamentation on their walls.

Examples of usage

  • The author's use of embellishment brought the fictional world to life.
  • His storytelling was characterized by colorful embellishments that captivated the audience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the old French 'embellir,' meaning 'to make beautiful.'
  • It has Latin roots in 'bellus,' which means 'pretty' or 'handsome.'
  • Over time, its usage expanded from visuals to descriptions in art and storytelling.

Art and Design

  • In art, embellishments can enhance a painting or sculpture, giving it more detail and interest.
  • Many architectural styles include embellishments such as intricate moldings and decorations.
  • Traditional crafts often use embellishments like beads, sequins, or embroidery to add character.

Literature

  • Authors often use embellishments in storytelling, adding vivid details to create richer imagery.
  • The use of embellishments in poetry can enhance emotion and rhythm, making the piece more engaging.
  • Some literary critics argue that excessive embellishment can detract from the main message or story.

Psychology

  • Psychologically, people may embellish stories to make them more entertaining or relatable.
  • The need for embellishment can reflect a desire for attention or validation from others.
  • Cognitive biases can lead individuals to embellish memories, altering how experiences are recalled.

Fashion

  • In fashion, embellishments like beads, rhinestones, and embroidery can transform basic clothing into designer pieces.
  • Seasonal trends often showcase different types of embellishments, influencing consumer choices.
  • Fashion designers use embellishments to express artistry and creativity, setting their work apart.

Translations

Translations of the word "embellishment" in other languages:

🇵🇹 enfeite

🇮🇳 सजावट

🇩🇪 Verzierung

🇮🇩 hiasan

🇺🇦 прикраса

🇵🇱 ozdoba

🇯🇵 装飾 (sōshoku)

🇫🇷 ornement

🇪🇸 adorno

🇹🇷 süsleme

🇰🇷 장식 (jangsik)

🇸🇦 زخرفة (zakhrafa)

🇨🇿 ozdoba

🇸🇰 ozdoba

🇨🇳 装饰 (zhuāngshì)

🇸🇮 okras

🇮🇸 skraut

🇰🇿 әшекей

🇬🇪 მორთულობა (mortuloba)

🇦🇿 bəzək

🇲🇽 adorno

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,623, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.