embellishment

noun

em·​bel·​lish·​ment im-ˈbe-lish-mənt How to pronounce embellishment (audio)
Synonyms of embellishmentnext
1
: the act or process of embellishing
2
: something serving to embellish
3
: ornament sense 5

Synonyms of embellishment

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Examples of embellishment in a Sentence

a colorful mobile is just the embellishment that the soon-to-be nursery needs the actor's penchant for embellishment suggests that his memoirs would be more appropriately shelved in the fiction section
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The shoes were designed with lots of straps, embellishment, a slight platform and stiletto heel. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 28 June 2026 Jen wore a light blue dress with diamond embellishments while Mike looked dapper in a tux. — Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 Delicate fabrics like lace or sequins can tear or lose embellishments in the washer. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 The front of the romper also boasted a silver zipper that stretched across the length of the design, acting as a centerpiece for the ornate embellishments. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for embellishment

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of embellishment was in 1591

Browse Nearby Words

embellisher
embellishment
ember
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Cite this Entry

“Embellishment.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/embellishment. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on embellishment

Nglish: Translation of embellishment for Spanish Speakers

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