decorated

American

[dek-uh-rey-tid] / ˈdɛk əˌreɪ tɪd /

adjective

(often initial capital letter) of pertaining to, or characteristic of the English gothic architecture of the late 13th through the late 14th centuries, characterized by curvilinear tracery, elaborate ornamental sculpture and vaulting, and refinement of stonecutting techniques.

Other Word Forms

nondecorated adjective
quasi-decorated adjective
superdecorated adjective
undecorated adjective
well-decorated adjective

Etymology

Origin of decorated

First recorded in 1720–30; decorate + -ed ²

Explanation

When something is embellished or made more beautiful, it's decorated, like the elaborately decorated cookies you made your parents for their anniversary. Besides things that are ornamented or adorned with decorations, you can also use this adjective for people who are honored, particularly soldiers who have served heroically. A decorated war veteran has received medals, awards, and honors from the military. Decorated soldiers often wear their medals on their uniforms. The Latin root of decorated is decus, "an ornament."

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Sambuceti and her colleagues were brought to Vilafranca, home to one of the most decorated colles.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

The opening relays set the stage for the most decorated runner of the meet, senior Quincy Wilson, who traveled across the country to put his talent on display.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

Archaeologists uncovered more than 5,000 fragments of painted wall plaster, along with bronze fittings from doors and windows, pointing to richly decorated structures.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

There is also a home theater, a wet bar, a game room, a gym, a massage room, and a beautifully decorated office with a fireplace.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

He had selected a custom-made pair of highly decorated pistols owned by his wealthy brother-in-law, John Church.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023