adjective

ornate

/ɔːrˈneɪt/ · say it: or·NAYT

elaborately decorated

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) decorated with lots of beautiful, detailed, or fancy designs

2. (adjective) (of language or writing) using complicated words and elaborate style

Examples

1. The ornate mirror had gold frames and intricate carvings.
2. The ornate language of the Victorian novel made it difficult to read.

How to use ornate

Ornate describes something richly decorated or elaborately styled, often with an implication of excess or complexity. It can be appreciative (suggesting beauty and craftsmanship) or slightly critical (suggesting overelaboration). In writing, ornate language is flowery and sophisticated, contrasting with plain or direct styles.

Common phrases

ornate design
ornate architecture
ornate language
ornate frame
ornate style

Synonyms

elaborate · decorative · embellished · ornamental · florid

Opposites

plain · simple · austere

Word family

ornately (adverb) · ornateness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use ornate to mean merely 'decorated' or 'fancy' without capturing the sense of elaborate complexity and detailed embellishment that is central to the word.

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