Definition

Decorated with small, showy ornaments or trinkets that are often considered to be of little value.

Example

The room was gewgawed with colorful decorations for the party.

Conversation

Have you seen that new cafe downtown?

Yeah, I went there last weekend; it's so gewgawed with decorations!

I love places that are a bit over the top like that.

Same here! It makes the atmosphere so much more fun.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'gewgawed' originates from the dialectal English term 'gewgaw', which refers to a showy but worthless trinket or bauble. The term 'gewgaw' itself is believed to derive from the Middle English 'gog', meaning a trinket or bauble, and is likely influenced by the French 'gouge', meaning to poke or dig, suggesting something that is superficial or merely ornamental. Thus, 'gewgawed' describes something that is adorned with showy, trivial decorations.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gewgaw' as a fancy but worthless trinket, and remember that 'gewgawed' means something that is decorated with such trivial, showy items.

Visually Confused Words