embellishment

American  

[em-bel-ish-muhnt] / ɛmˈbɛl ɪʃ mənt /

noun

1. an ornament or decoration.

2. a fictitious addition, as to a factual statement.

3. Music.

   1. ornament.

   2. auxiliary tone.

4. the act of embellishing.

5. state of being embellished.

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Other Word Forms

• nonembellishment noun
• overembellishment noun

Etymology

Origin of embellishment

First recorded in 1615–25; embellish + -ment

Example Sentences

KSENIASCHNAIDER's show was in complete contrast to Annie's highly crafted runway looks, which were a flurry of beading, embellishment and feathers.

From BBC

The embellishment was so far-fetched, its chances of being believed were less than a wing and a prayer.

From Los Angeles Times

The collection was punctuated by lace, feathers and embellishments, with the models dressed like showgirls.

From BBC

Mr. Tallent mixes climbing terminology with poetic embellishments to evoke the sport’s risks and triumphs.

From The Wall Street Journal

We know embellishment is one of the biggest trends for next spring and summer - with extravagantly textured items also seen across many runways.

From BBC

Related Words

• adornment
• coloring
• embroidery
• ornamentation