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elaborate

adj. · v.
US //ɪˈɫæbɝˌeɪt// elab·o·rate
  1. 1 complex and detailed (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having many parts or small details; often very carefully planned.

    marked by complexity, fullness of detail, or ornate design.

    Example

    The dancers wore elaborate costumes with thousands of tiny silk flowers.

    Example

    The cathedral's elaborate ceiling took over a decade to complete, featuring hundreds of unique hand-painted figures and gold leaf accents.
  2. 2 to give more detail (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to explain something more fully or add more information to a story.

    to expand on a subject by providing additional details or explanation. Often used intransitively with the preposition 'on'.

    Example

    The manager asked her to elaborate on her plans for the new project.

    Example

    During the press conference, the spokesperson refused to elaborate on the specific security measures being implemented for the summit.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the pattern 'elaborate on something'.
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  1. 3 to develop a system (v.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    to work out or create something in a very detailed way.

    to produce or develop something through intensive effort and attention to detail.

    Example

    Scientists have spent years trying to elaborate a theory that explains these results.

    Example

    The research team sought to elaborate a more sophisticated model for predicting urban growth patterns over the next fifty years.
Origin

1575, from Late Latin ēlabōrātus (“worked out”), past participle of ēlabōrō (“to work out”), from ē- (“out, forth, fully”) + labor (“work, toil, exertion”). More at e-, labour.

Word family

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