Overadorn: meaning, definitions and examples

When something is excessively decorated to the point of looking tacky or overly elaborate, especially in fashion or interior design.

• The gown was overadorned with sequins, making it look gaudy rather than elegant

Used when referring to spaces that have too many decorative items, often making the area look cluttered and overwhelming.

• The living room was overdecorated with too many throw pillows and knick-knacks, leaving little space to move around

Typically refers to adding too many details or decorations to a story, piece of writing, or a design, making it lose its original simplicity or honesty.

• He tended to overembellish his stories, adding details that made them hard to believe

Often used in art and architecture, indicating an excessive use of ornamental details, making the object or structure appear excessively detailed and fussy.

• The building was overornamented with intricate carvings, leaving no plain surfaces to provide visual rest

Used when describing something that has been decorated excessively, often to the point of being gaudy or tacky. Has a slightly negative connotation.

• The room was overadorned with so many trinkets that it felt cluttered and overwhelming

Appropriate for describing a space or object that has too many decorations, making it look busy or chaotic. Similar to 'overadorn' but more commonly used in everyday language.

• During the holidays, they tend to overdecorate their house with lights and ornaments

Used when discussing overly detailed decor or when someone adds too many details to a story or work of art. It implies going beyond what is tasteful or necessary.

• She tends to overembellish her stories, making them hard to believe occasionally

Refers to placing too much furniture in a space, leading to a cramped or cluttered feeling. Generally used in interior design contexts.

• The apartment felt small because they overfurnished the living room with large sofas and tables