VocabDictionary

ornate

/ɔːrˈneɪt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns; elaborately or excessively ornamented.

Example Sentences:
  • The palace featured ornate golden ceilings and massive crystal chandeliers.
  • She wrote in a very ornate style that used an abundance of flowery metaphors.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ornate”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'ornatus', the past participle of 'ornare' meaning 'to equip, adorn, or furnish'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century, initially retaining the sense of being equipped or adorned, which gradually narrowed to mean elaborately decorated or embellished.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Ornate sounds like 'horn ate' – imagine a viking helmet with horn-like decorations that are extremely elaborate and fancy.

Frequently Asked Questions About “ornate

1. What is the meaning of “ornate” in English?

In English, ornate (adjective) is defined as: “Made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns; elaborately or excessively ornamented.”.

2. How do you use “ornate” in a sentence?

The palace featured ornate golden ceilings and massive crystal chandeliers.

3. What are English synonyms of “ornate”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ornate”?

Derived from the Latin 'ornatus', the past participle of 'ornare' meaning 'to equip, adorn, or furnish'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century, initially retaining the sense of being equipped or adorned, which gradually narrowed to mean elaborately decorated or embellished.