Prettifying: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'prettifying' comes from the word 'pretty', which means attractive or pleasing to the eye.
• Adding the suffix '-ing' transforms the adjective into an action, showing that it's something you do.
• The word 'pretty' itself traces back to the Old French word 'prete', meaning cunning or clever, which shifted in meaning over time.

Art and Design

• In visual arts, prettifying often involves enhancing colors or adding decorative elements to make work more appealing.
• The concept is crucial in design fields such as fashion, interior design, and graphic design, where aesthetics play a major role.
• Many artists experiment with prettifying their creations to evoke certain emotions or reactions from viewers.

Cultural Perspectives

• Prettifying can reflect cultural standards of beauty which vary across different societies and time periods.
• In some cultures, beautifying is linked to rituals and traditions, often involving practices passed down through generations.
• Social media has influenced global trends in prettifying, as platforms showcase various beauty ideals from around the world.

Psychology

• The act of prettifying can enhance emotional well-being by creating pleasant environments or experiences.
• Research shows that attractive designs can influence our mood and perceptions more positively.
• Prettifying can also be a form of self-expression, where individuals decorate their surroundings to reflect personal identity.

Literature

• In literature, the concept of prettifying is often used to discuss characters who dress up or adorn themselves for social situations.
• Authors sometimes explore themes of superficial beauty versus inner character, highlighting the contrast between appearances and reality.
• Poets, such as John Keats, have often employed beautifying language to evoke imagery that enchants and captivates the reader.