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 company assesses and breaks down recyclable apparel—removing zippers, buttons and other embellishments—to break down fabric into raw fibers which can then be used to create new yarn or other products. —Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 14 May 2026

Little side stories, embellishments, enlargements — and part of ‘The Hunt for Gollum’ is described in that. —Andy Hazel, IndieWire, 14 May 2026

While Calvin Klein normally does away with fussy embellishments and patterns, stripes remain the only exception, thanks to their resort casual look that instantly elevates an outfit while keeping it understated. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 2026

Combining functionality with fashionability, while maintaining Vuori’s sleek silhouettes, simple embellishments and a quiet color palette. —Kaio Cesar, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1