What does ornament mean?
An ornament is something added to give visual appeal, charm, or distinction to a person, place, object, or piece of writing. The word most commonly refers to a small decorative item, such as a Christmas bauble, figurine, or ornamental fitting, but it can also describe a feature incorporated into architecture, furniture, clothing, or design. As a verb, “ornament” means to embellish an object or piece of work with decorative details: the roof was ornamented with carved figures, or the speaker’s account was ornamented with memorable anecdotes. The term often carries a mild implication of addition for beauty rather than practical function. In literary and formal contexts, it can suggest graceful or elaborate embellishment, though it can also describe decoration that is excessive when used critically. “Decorate” is a broader and usually more neutral alternative, while “adornment” emphasizes the act or result of beautifying something.
A decorative object or feature used to embellish a room, building, garment, or other object; an embellishing detail.
"The mantelpiece was covered with small ornaments and framed photographs."
The word commonly denotes a particular decorative object or feature, though it can also refer more generally to ornamentation.
To decorate or embellish something, especially with ornamental features.
"The artist ornamented the vessel with delicate painted patterns."
Usually used transitively, with the thing being decorated as its direct object.
The standard plural is “ornaments.”
"The tree was decorated with colourful ornaments."
From the Latin verb ornare, meaning “to adorn,” ornament became a word for anything deliberately added not merely for utility but for beauty.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
Related word forms
How ornament is actually used
As a noun, “ornament” often suggests a discrete decorative object or feature and can imply that the object is decorative rather than strictly necessary. As a verb, it is usually transitive and takes a direct object: “she ornamented the dress with embroidery.” In formal writing, “decorate” is often the more neutral choice.
Easily confused with ornament
An ornament is typically a particular decorative object or feature, whereas decoration can refer more broadly to the act of decorating or to a collection of decorative elements.
An adornment is often something that adds beauty to a person or object, while an ornament more commonly refers to a small decorative object or a deliberately added decorative feature.