Definition

To make something more attractive or interesting by adding decorative details or extra features, often including imaginative or exaggerated elements.

Example

She decided to embellish her dress with sequins and beads for the party.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how she embellishes her stories at the party last night?

Yeah, it was hilarious! I couldn't tell what was real and what wasn't.

I know! It's like she can’t help but embellish everything for a laugh.

True, but it definitely makes her the life of the party!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Embellish → It is formed from "em-" (a variant of "en-", meaning to cause to be) and "bellus" (meaning pretty or beautiful in Latin). The word "embellish" means to make something more beautiful or attractive by adding decorative details.

Memory Tip

Think of making something more 'beautiful' ('bellus') by 'causing' it to be so ('em-'). This helps you remember that embellish means to enhance beauty.

Visually Confused Words