ornate

adjective

or·​nate ȯr-ˈnāt 

1

: marked by elaborate rhetoric (see rhetoric sense 2b) or florid (see florid sense 1a) style

is clear and simple rather than ornate and pompous

—The Times Literary Supplement (London)

2

: elaborately or excessively decorated

an ornate mantle

an ornate townhouse

ornate chandeliers

ornately adverb

ornateness noun

Synonyms

• bedizened
• florid
• fussy
• gingerbread
• gingerbreaded
• gingerbready
• overdecorated
• overwrought

Examples of ornate in a Sentence

She doesn't like ornate jewelry.

an ornate gambling casino that is designed to look like an Italian palace

Recent Examples on the Web

The strapless dress featured a soft, feminine look, complete with a peachy tone and complemented by ornate white lace embroidery on the bodice and skirt. —Julia Teti, WWD, 26 Feb. 2025

That means leaving the ornate, heavy, intricate lighting in the early 2000s. —Heather Bien, Southern Living, 26 Feb. 2025

Crystal gift sets Crystal decanter sets make great gifts for the drinkers in your social circle, and many come with ornate packaging that will wow your recipient. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 21 Feb. 2025

During a visit, guests are welcome to marvel at its many ornate paintings and sculptures, while the nearby town of Paro is perfect for an afternoon stroll after exploring the temple. —Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ornat, from Latin ornatus, past participle of ornare to furnish, embellish; akin to Latin ordo order — more at order

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ornate

• abate
• airfreight
• await
• baseplate
• berate
• birthdate
• birthrate
• bookplate
• borate
• breastplate
• bromate
• casemate

Kids Definition

ornate

adjective

or·​nate ȯr-ˈnāt 

: decorated in a fancy way

ornately adverb

ornateness noun