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elaborate

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verb

as in to unfold
to gradually become clearer or more detailed as mankind's understanding of the universe has elaborated

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of elaborate
Adjective
Some sprawl out behind elaborate ceremonial gates, while others quietly integrate with the urban fabric; some are significantly pedestrianized, while others center on major intersections. Oscar Holland, CNN Money, 1 Oct. 2025 Vacheron Constantin really treated horophiles this month, unveiling an elaborate automaton clock and a métiers d’art wristwatch to accompany it. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 Sep. 2025
Verb
The department declined to elaborate on whether courts would continue operating uninterrupted if the shutdown is prolonged. Noe Padilla, IndyStar, 1 Oct. 2025 In an interview with podcast host Big Loon, Thug elaborated on his thinking behind the cover. Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elaborate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elaborate
Adjective
  • While other accounts had described Desai’s role, Doshi’s research painted a far more detailed picture.
    Catherine E. Shoichet, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2025
  • The Tennessean requested additional records to learn how many of those students are enrolled at each school, along with more detailed demographic information on the students.
    Rachel Wegner, Nashville Tennessean, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The company’s inspectors carry out regular and thorough checks on the workshops selected and employed by Tod’s.
    Martino Carrera, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Its thorough filtration process captures pollen, dust, and other small particles, while also absorbing odors and fumes.
    Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Lego Wicked Emerald City Wall Art This intricate 1,518-piece Emerald City Lego set is bound to keep adults and kids busy ahead of the new movie.
    Ali Faccenda, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Lou's movies are known for their intricate storylines and complex figures, but An Unfinished Film is surprisingly simple, containing little plot or character development.
    Yangyang Cheng, NPR, 4 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • This transformation, McVey cautioned, takes time to unfold.
    Mohammed Sergie, semafor.com, 9 Oct. 2025
  • While the full impact of Medicaid cuts could take years to unfold, doctors say the system is already buckling.
    Selina Wang, ABC News, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Moscow has denied involvement, and security analysts caution that attribution is complicated.
    Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
  • On a journey spanning four continents, the Kohlers will battle physical, mental and emotional exhaustion, navigate the complicated world of visas and hopefully break three world records in the process.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • As of Tuesday evening, the fire crew has achieved full containment of the blaze.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 8 Oct. 2025
  • Use it in Laptop Mode for productivity with a full keyboard and trackpad, switch to Studio Mode for drawing and design with the Surface Pen (not included), or detach the screen to enter Tablet Mode for browsing, streaming, and entertainment.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 8 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • These are common but complicate long-term planning for federal agencies.
    Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Despite differing views on a variety of security issues, the group, like Gilpatric’s, reached a clear consensus: nuclear proliferation by any additional country would diminish U.S. power, complicate strategic planning, and increase the likelihood of nuclear use, accidents, and disasters.
    MARIANO-FLORENTINO CUÉLLAR, Foreign Affairs, 25 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The festival, which started in Little Rock in 1984, has evolved beyond Greek food to include recipes and dishes from Palestine, Armenia, India and more of the nationalities represented at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, the festival's host and one of its main sponsors.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Oct. 2025
  • As time passed, however, the ritual evolved.
    Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 4 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Elaborate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elaborate. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

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