decorate

[ˈdɛkəreɪt]

decorate Definition

  • 1make (something) look more attractive by adding extra items or images to it
  • 2award a mark of honor, typically a medal, to (a member of the armed forces)
  • 3be awarded a mark of honor for bravery or distinguished service

Using decorate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "decorate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She decorated the room with balloons and streamers.

  • Example

    The soldier was decorated for his bravery in battle.

  • Example

    He was decorated with the Medal of Honor for his service in the war.

decorate Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for decorate

Idioms Using decorate

  • to make something seem better or more acceptable than it really is

    Example

    He decorated the truth a little when he told his boss why he was late to work.

  • to add an extra layer of decoration to something that is already well-decorated

    Example

    She decided to decorate the cake with icing on the top to make it look even more impressive.

  • to decorate every part of a house, including the ceilings, walls, and floors

    Example

    They spent days decorating the house from top to bottom for their annual Halloween party.

Phrases with decorate

  • add icing, frosting, or other edible decorations to a cake

    Example

    She spent hours decorating the cake for her daughter's birthday party.

  • add ornaments, lights, and other decorations to a Christmas tree

    Example

    We always decorate our Christmas tree on the day after Thanksgiving.

  • add furniture, curtains, rugs, and other decorative items to a room

    Example

    She spent weeks decorating her new apartment before moving in.

Origins of decorate

from Latin 'decoratus', past participle of 'decorare', meaning 'to adorn'

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Summary: decorate in Brief

To 'decorate' [ˈdɛkəreɪt] means to add extra items or images to something to make it look more attractive. It can refer to adding decorative items to a room, such as furniture or curtains, or to adding ornaments and lights to a Christmas tree. 'Decorate' can also mean to award a mark of honor, typically a medal, to a member of the armed forces.

How do native speakers use this expression?