Frill: meaning, definitions and examples

Frill is often used to describe decorative edges or trim on fabric. It can also mean unnecessary extras or accessories in a non-literal sense.

• Her dress had delicate frills along the sleeves.
• The car is basic with no frills.

Ruffle refers to a strip of fabric that has been gathered or pleated. It can also mean to disturb the smoothness of something or to agitate someone.

• The blouse had ruffles down the front.
• The wind ruffled his hair.
• His comments ruffled several feathers.

Flounce usually refers to a wide, decorative strip of fabric gathered and sewn to a piece of clothing for added flair. It can also describe a dramatic, exaggerated movement.

• The skirt had a flounce at the hem.
• She flounced out of the room in a huff.

Flourish can mean a dramatic, confident gesture or a detailed, elaborate design or decoration. It is also used to describe thriving or doing something successfully.

• He finished his speech with a flourish.
• The room was decorated with flourishes of gold paint.
• His business is flourishing in the new market.

This word is often used to describe unnecessary decorations or features, especially in clothing or design. It suggests something that is added for show rather than function.

• The dress had frills along the sleeves and hem.
• We need a straightforward solution without any frills.

This word is used for objects that are added to something to make it more attractive. Often refers to seasonal decorations like Christmas ornaments or general decorative items.

• The Christmas tree was covered in ornaments.
• She placed a small ornament on the shelf.

Used in contexts where there is an addition of decorative details or features to make something more attractive. It can refer to physical objects or rhetorical elements, such as adding extra details to a story.

• Her wedding dress was simple, without much embellishment.
• His tale of adventure was full of embellishments.

Typically used to describe something that has gone beyond what is normal or necessary. This word often has a negative connotation, implying wastefulness or overindulgence.

• There was an excess of decorations at the party.
• They were criticized for their excess in spending.