ornamentation

noun

or·​na·​men·​ta·​tion ˌȯr-nə-mən-ˈtā-shən 

-ˌmen-

1

: something that ornaments : embellishment

2

: the act or process of ornamenting : the state of being ornamented

Synonyms of ornamentation

• decoration
• ornament
• adornment

Examples of ornamentation in a Sentence

A bright ribbon was used for ornamentation.

a ballroom with elaborate ornamentation

Recent Examples on the Web

Pale, dusty hues enhance natural light, offering a subtle counterpoint to the rich ornamentation, while ceiling paintings by Vicke Andrén, celebrated for his work at the Royal Swedish Opera, underscore the apartment’s artistic importance. —Mark David, Robb Report, 23 Mar. 2026

One of the White House’s most compelling features has always been its domestic scale and ornamentation. —Edward Keegan, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026

But Yee hopes that straight talk and her distinct lack of ornamentation will count for something with California voters. —Mark Z. Barabak, Mercury News, 11 Mar. 2026

Following the Great Depression, many of the original principles of Art Deco—like rich materials and opulent ornamentation—were no longer affordable and, in some situations, no longer desirable. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1706, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for ornamentation

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration