Definition of baroque
1 art : of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a style of artistic expression prevalent especially in the 17th century that is marked generally by use of complex forms, bold ornamentation, and the juxtaposition of contrasting elements often conveying a sense of drama, movement, and tension a baroque cathedral baroque music and literature the baroque period
2 : characterized by grotesqueness, extravagance, complexity, or flamboyance a truly baroque act of sabotage — G. N. Shuster
3 of gems : irregularly shaped a baroque pearl
baroquely
adverbFrom the M-W Editors
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Examples of baroque in a sentence
a somewhat baroque writing style
a book filled with baroque descriptions
Did You Know?
Baroque came to English from a French word meaning "irregularly shaped." At first, the word in French was used mostly to refer to pearls. Eventually, it came to describe an extravagant style of art characterized by curving lines, gilt, and gold. This type of art, which was prevalent especially in the 17th century, was sometimes considered to be excessively decorated and overly complicated. It makes sense, therefore, that the meaning of the word baroque has broadened to include anything that seems excessively ornate or elaborate.
Origin and Etymology of baroque
French, from Middle French barroque irregularly shaped (of a pearl), from Portuguese barroco irregularly shaped pearl
First Known Use: circa 1734
baroque
Definition of baroque
art : the baroque style or the period in which it flourished
Origin and Etymology of baroque
noun derivative of 1baroque
First Known Use: 1852
Other History Terms
BAROQUE Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of baroque for English Language Learners
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: of or relating to a dramatic style of art and music that was common in the 17th and early 18th centuries and that featured many decorative parts and details
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: having many details or too many details
Learn More about baroque
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See words that rhyme with baroque Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for baroque Spanish Central: Translation of baroque Nglish: Translation of baroque for Spanish speakers
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