ornate

adjective

or·​nate ȯr-ˈnāt 

1

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

He 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 of ornate

• baroque
• decorated
• adorned
• extravagant
• ornamented
• gilded
• florid
• loud
• lacy
• overwrought
• gingerbread
• overdecorated

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

Created around 1613 by royal clockmaker David Ramsay, the pre-balance spring verge watch combines 17th-century mechanical innovation with ornate decoration befitting of a blueblood. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 Nov. 2026

Seasonal or themed doormats, as well as those with ornate designs, start at $20. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Nov. 2026

The ornate Spanish Colonial edifice has elicited curiosity from those unfamiliar with its significance. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 Nov. 2026

The eatery, famous for its ornate interiors, huge portions and even huger calorie counts, has been thrust into the 2026 midterm elections. — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2026

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