Prettify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prettify

[ˈprɛtɪfaɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

make attractive

To prettify means to make something look more attractive or appealing, often by enhancing its appearance through embellishments or improvements. This can apply to physical objects, digital interfaces, or even concepts.

Synonyms

beautify, decorated, enhance, improve.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to prettify her garden with colorful flowers.
  • The designer will prettify the website by adding vibrant images.
  • He tried to prettify his speech with fancy words.
  • They want to prettify the old building before the event.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • 'Prettify' is often used in fashion and design, where styles or items are modified to enhance aesthetic appeal.
  • Interior decorators frequently use the term when discussing ways to enhance the beauty of a home.

Literature

  • The concept of prettifying appears in various literary works to describe characters transforming their surroundings for personal or social reasons.
  • Writers often employ the idea of 'prettifying' to illustrate the contrast between inner beauty versus outer appearances.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals are often drawn to aesthetically pleasing environments, as they can elevate mood and overall well-being.
  • The act of prettifying spaces can create a sense of comfort and encourage positive social interactions.

Fashion and Design

  • In the world of fashion, the term is frequently used to describe the process of enhancing clothing styles to make them more appealing.
  • Graphic designers use digital tools to prettify images, making them more attractive for advertisements and media.

Origin of 'prettify'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the late 19th century, combining 'pretty' with the suffix '-fy,' which means to make or to do.
  • The suffix '-fy' is found in other English words like 'beautify' and 'amplify,' indicating the action of causing a change.

The word 'prettify' is derived from the adjective 'pretty,' which comes from the Middle English 'pretty' meaning 'crafty, sly' and later evolved to mean 'pleasantly attractive' in the 15th century. The suffix '-fy,' from the Latin 'facere' meaning 'to make,' is commonly used in English to form verbs indicating the action of making something. The combination into 'prettify' started to become popular in the early 20th century, reflecting a growing cultural emphasis on aesthetics and the importance of visual appeal in various aspects of life, from home decor to personal grooming.