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 of embellishment

• ornamentation
• ornament
• decoration
• adornment

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

The pattern decorates four styles, with materials and sparkling embellishment coming together in a play of reflections. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 3 Nov. 2026

The glossy surface brings visual interest without relying on embellishment or flashy hardware. — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026

Then, the Instagram Reel cut to a modern-day video of Union posing in a plunging golden gown detailed with gemstone embellishments on the bodice. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 30 Oct. 2026

In these temps, a jacket is basically the whole outfit, and the chicest women are leaning into effortless yet elevated styles that tie in heritage prints, flattering silhouettes, and even some unexpected embellishments. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 24 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1