embellishment

noun

im-ˈbe-lish-mənt How to pronounce embellishment (audio)
Definition of embellishmentnext
1
as in ornamentation
something that decorates or beautifies a colorful mobile is just the embellishment that the soon-to-be nursery needs

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in exaggeration
the representation of something in terms that go beyond the facts the actor's penchant for embellishment suggests that his memoirs would be more appropriately shelved in the fiction section

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of embellishment Delicate fabrics like lace or sequins can tear or lose embellishments in the washer. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 3 July 2026 Shaboozey's trajectory makes the case without any embellishment. — Olivia Shalhoup, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 The shoes were designed with lots of straps, embellishment, a slight platform and stiletto heel. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 28 June 2026 Finally, washing clothes that have beading or other embellishments, including delicate buttons, inside out will protect against damage. — Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for embellishment
Recent Examples of Synonyms for embellishment
  1. ornamentation
  2. exaggeration
  3. ornament
  4. caricature
  5. decoration
  6. embroidery
  7. adornment
  8. enhancement
Noun
  • Other examples of ornamentation include the scalloped crown molding in the entry hall and colorful tiling on risers of steps down to the south side of the house.
    — Brian Bell, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 July 2026
  • The rear fenders are muscular without being bulky, and the tail has a clean, modern appearance that avoids excessive ornamentation.
    — Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of ornamentation
Noun
  • That may sound like an exaggeration, but higher education will almost certainly have to become more remedial.
    — Rose Horowitch, The Atlantic, 8 July 2026
  • That may be a TV exaggeration, but tornadoes and other dangerous storms do hit the city regularly.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 7 July 2026
Definition of exaggeration
Noun
  • The gallery posted a photo of the ornament on Instagram earlier this week.
    — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026
  • Saleh sometimes leads painting workshops where participants can decorate items like ornaments and lampshades.
    — Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
Definition of ornament
Noun
  • Olikara, who grew up around Wisconsin’s farmland, bristles at how routinely rural America is flattened into caricature.
    — Afdhel Aziz, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • Honestly, Suzie has been a caricature of a demanding boss straight from some sort of rom-com situation, but Paula finally dresses her down here and the scene is delightful.
    — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 24 June 2026
Definition of caricature
Noun
  • People in costumes marched alongside floats with advertisements and extravagantly patriotic decorations.
    — Nolan Rogalski, The Providence Journal, 5 July 2026
  • On Monday, June 29, multiple trucks were spotted outside the famous arena with workers loading equipment, grass and other decorations inside.
    — Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026
Definition of decoration
Noun
  • For four decades, Indian textile house Chanakya International has produced some of the world’s most intricate embroidery for houses including Dior, Prada, and Fendi.
    — Sujata Assomull, Vogue, 7 July 2026
  • Levi’s icons like the 501 jean and the Type II jacket are elevated with feathers, embroidery and sculptural detailing.
    — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 6 July 2026
Definition of embroidery
Noun
  • Biles stepped out in a red wine and metallic dress designed by DO LONG, detailed with gem-like adornments and dramatic tulle.
    — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
  • Doechii’s version included contrasting brown and gold reptilian-print material as well as beads, sequins and tassel adornment.
    — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 28 June 2026
Definition of adornment
Noun
  • They can be triggered by something as small as a single word, a passing comment, or a seemingly harmless decision or, as with Steve and Lilly, a seemingly appropriate request for clarification or small enhancement.
    — Susan MacKenty Brady, Fortune, 14 July 2026
  • These software enhancements are expected to be important as the MQ-25A progresses through further development stages.
    — Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026
Definition of enhancement

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Cite this Entry

“Embellishment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/embellishment. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on embellishment

Nglish: Translation of embellishment for Spanish Speakers

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