ornate
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “ornate” mean?
noun.made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in passages related to art, architecture, or literature, emphasizing elaborate design and aesthetic complexity. It suggests a level of sophistication and richness that goes beyond mere decoration, distinguishing it from simpler terms like "decorative," which may not convey the same depth of intricacy or artistry.
Common Confusions
Ornate implies intricate and elaborate design with artistic depth, while decorative usually suggests a more straightforward embellishment that lacks the same level of complexity or sophistication.
Do not choose ornate if the context emphasizes simplicity or plainness rather than being made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns.
Example Sentences
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The ornate ceiling of the palace took years to paint.