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

Moreover, if the item in question has embellishments or beading, finding someone qualified to properly repair the item can be difficult or time-consuming. — Caroline Lubinsky, Martha Stewart, 7 Aug. 2026

Hayek wowed in a blue dress adorned with firework-like crystal embellishments, while Valentina looked chic in a long leather skirt and a blue dress shirt. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026

The ankle-length silhouette had a pointed collar and a button-down front, with small clusters of gold-toned and clear embellishments scattered throughout. — Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 30 July 2026

There are no embellishments such as lace or trim, giving it a simple look that feels appropriate for all ages. — Jenny Berg, InStyle, 29 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1