English Reference

Word

adorned

US/əˈdɔɹnd/

UK/ɐdˈɔːnd/

Definition

adj. having decorations or ornaments that make something look more attractive.

adj. decorated or embellished with ornaments to enhance aesthetic appeal.

Examples

“The room was adorned with fresh flowers.”

“She adorned her simple dress with a bright red scarf for the party.”

“The ancient temple was adorned with intricate carvings that told stories of gods and heroes from long ago.”

Examples

simple

“The room was adorned with fresh flowers.”

contextual

“She adorned her simple dress with a bright red scarf for the party.”

complex

“The ancient temple was adorned with intricate carvings that told stories of gods and heroes from long ago.”

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'with'.

Teaching tip

This word is more formal and poetic than 'decorated'; it suggests a high level of detail or beauty.

Real-World Examples

“Another is decorated in colorful earth tones and adorned with feathers.”
Smithsonian Magazine · 24 Sept 2026

Synonyms

Antonyms

plainbareunadorned

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Frequent
Updated
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Literary

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/adorned

English Reference