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

Carpenter, meanwhile, alternates between platform stage shoes and more traditional evening stilettos for offstage outings, often favoring satin or crystal embellishment. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 8 Nov. 2025

Protection of Embellished and Textured Fabrics Garments with embroidery, beading, sequins, or patches can be damaged in the washer if the embellishments snag on a button or snap. —Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025

The retailer dropped the Rare DNM Edit Holiday Collection, a line of jackets and jeans featuring statement embellishments and details befitting holiday parties and festive events. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 6 Nov. 2025

Finally, washing clothes that have beading or other embellishments, including delicate buttons, inside out will protect against damage. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1