embellish

[em-bel-ish]

embellish Definition

  • 1to make something more attractive or interesting by adding decorative details or features
  • 2to add untrue details to a story to make it more interesting or exciting

Using embellish: Examples

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

  • Example

    She embellished her dress with sequins and beads.

  • Example

    The author embellished the story with fictional characters.

  • Example

    He tends to embellish his accomplishments when telling stories.

  • Example

    The chef embellished the dish with fresh herbs and spices.

embellish Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for embellish

Idioms Using embellish

  • to add unnecessary decoration or detail to something that is already beautiful or impressive

    Example

    The design was already perfect, but he couldn't resist embellishing the lily with additional flourishes.

  • to provide more detail or information about something that has already been mentioned

    Example

    Can you embellish on your earlier point about the benefits of exercise?

  • to make one's home or living space more comfortable or luxurious

    Example

    After receiving a promotion, she decided to use the extra income to embellish her nest with new furniture and decor.

Phrases with embellish

  • to add untrue details to a story to make it more interesting or exciting

    Example

    He always embellishes the truth when telling stories about his adventures.

  • to add false or exaggerated information to a resume in order to make oneself appear more qualified for a job

    Example

    It's not a good idea to embellish your resume, as employers can easily verify your qualifications.

  • to decorate a cake with frosting, icing, or other decorative elements

    Example

    She spent hours embellishing the cake with intricate designs and patterns.

Origins of embellish

from Old French 'embeliss-', stem of 'embelir', meaning 'to make beautiful'

📌

Summary: embellish in Brief

The verb 'embellish' [em-bel-ish] means to add decorative details or features to something, or to add untrue details to a story to make it more interesting. It can be used in contexts such as fashion, cooking, and storytelling, as in 'She embellished her dress with sequins and beads,' 'The chef embellished the dish with fresh herbs and spices,' and 'The author embellished the story with fictional characters.' The idiom 'embellish the lily' refers to adding unnecessary decoration to something already beautiful.