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Embellishment: meaning, definitions and examples

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embellishment

 

[ ɪmˈbɛlɪʃmənt ]

Noun
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

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

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.

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

Etymology

The word 'embellishment' originated from the Middle French word 'embelliss-,' which means 'made beautiful.' It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century. Over time, the term evolved to encompass not just physical beauty but also the enhancement or adornment of various forms of expression, such as art, literature, and speech.

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

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.