embellishment

noun

em·​bel·​lish·​ment im-ˈbe-lish-mənt 

1

: the act or process of embellishing

2

: something serving to embellish

3

: ornament sense 5

Synonyms

• adornment
• beautifier
• caparison
• decoration
• doodad
• embellisher
• frill
• garnish
• garnishment
• garniture
• ornament
• ornamentation
• setoff
• trim

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

From crystal embellishments to vibrant Hawaiian-print designs, Philipp Plein weaves his audacious spirit into every facet of the brand manifestation. —Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 17 Jan. 2025

For cover-ups with embellishments like tassels and beads, spot clean to avoid damaging these delicate pieces. —Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2025

Rhinestone and crystal embellishments and metallic foils help deliver the futuristic vibe. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 9 Jan. 2025

Other Golden Globes attendees jumped aboard the trend as well: Nobody Wants This creator Erin Foster wore a structured black and white dress while actor Justine Lupe chose a navy blue Prada with a cape, peplum, and crystal embellishment. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1