# flowery

/ˈfɫaʊɝi/ (US) · /flˈaʊəɹi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/flowery
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

using many words that sound beautiful or poetic, but sometimes in a way that feels too complicated or fake. You use this to describe writing or speech that is full of fancy details.

For teachers: characterised by an excessive use of elaborate or ornate language; overly verbose or gushing in style. Often carries a slightly negative connotation when used to describe prose or speech.

## Examples

- His speech was full of flowery words and long sentences.
- The editor suggested cutting the flowery descriptions to make the article more accessible to a general audience.
- While the poet's flowery style was admired for its beauty, some critics argued that it obscured the central message of the poem.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.