ornate
UK: ɔːˈneɪt | US: ɔːrˈneɪt
adj. elaborately or highly decorated
adj. (of language or style) excessively elaborate or showy
ornate = orn<adorn> + ate<adjective suffix>
- orn (from Latin ornare, meaning "to adorn, equip, or decorate")
- ate (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating possession or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "ornate" traces back to the Latin ornatus, the past participle of ornare ("to adorn"). The root orn- reflects the core idea of decoration or embellishment, while the suffix -ate transforms it into an adjective. Over time, "ornate" evolved in English to describe both physical decoration (e.g., architecture) and stylistic excess (e.g., language), retaining its connection to lavishness.
The cathedral's ornate ceiling was covered in gold leaf and intricate carvings.
Her speech was so ornate that the audience struggled to follow its main points.
The antique mirror had an ornate frame with floral motifs.
Critics dismissed the novel as overly ornate and lacking substance.
The ballroom’s ornate chandeliers dazzled the guests.