florid
UK: ˈflɒrɪd | US: ˈflɔːrɪd
adj. 1. (of language or style) excessively intricate or elaborate; flowery.
adj. 2. (of a person's complexion) having a red or ruddy color.
adj. 3. (archaic) covered or adorned with flowers; floral.
florid = flor<flower> + id<adjective suffix>
- flor: From Latin flos (flower), retaining the spelling and meaning in words like "floral" and "flourish."
- id: A suffix forming adjectives, often indicating a state or quality (e.g., "vivid," "lucid").
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin floridus (flowery, blooming), the word entered English in the 17th century, initially describing ornate language or floral decoration. Over time, it expanded to describe ruddy complexions, metaphorically linking the "bloom" of flowers to healthy coloration. The suffix -id solidifies its adjectival form, emphasizing qualities of abundance or intensity.
The poet's florid prose was criticized for its excessive embellishment.
His florid cheeks suggested he had been out in the cold.
The ballroom was decorated in a florid style, with garlands covering every pillar.
She dismissed the speech as florid and lacking substance.
The manuscript's florid illustrations mirrored its elaborate calligraphy.