Merriam-Webster's Word Central

December 01, 2009

ornate (adjective): \or-NAYT\
What does it mean?: : decorated in a fancy way
How do you use it?: The old mansion is open for tours, and visitors can wander from room to room looking at the ornate furniture that adorns them.
Are you a word wiz?: Which of the following do you think is the best example of something that can be called "ornate"?

A. an antique glass milk jug used to hold flowers

B. a large house with many big windows

C. a gold picture frame with tiny jewels on it

D. an old complete set of encyclopedias

Although you might find the other things mentioned attractive, choice C, the gold picture frame with tiny jewels on it, is the only one can really be described as "ornate." "Ornate" comes from the Latin word "ornare," meaning "furnish" or "decorate," and the words it's related to share some meaning with "ornate." One is the word "decorate" itself, which has to do with making something more attractive by adding something beautiful or appealing. Another is the word "adorn." "Adorn" is very similar to "decorate," but it suggests that the thing being added is beautiful in itself.

Click here to cancel your e-mail subscription.