flowery
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /flˈaʊəri/
US
- /ˈflaʊəri/
Description
- ornate
- overly decorated
- too fancy in style or language
- full of flowers
"Flowery" does not always mean covered with blossoms. It often describes language that is too decorated, with too many fancy words or details. Think of a speech or piece of writing that sounds pretty but says less than it should. A garden full of blooms can also be flowery in the literal sense. The word can sometimes describe a person's style too, especially if their clothes or manner seem very showy and decorative.
The word "flowery" has two main uses. In a literal sense, it describes something full of flowers or covered with floral patterns. A meadow, a garden, a dress, or a wallpaper design can all be called flowery if they are rich in blooms or flower imagery.
More often, though, "flowery" is used figuratively. It describes language or expression that is too ornate, too dressed up, or too full of decorative detail. A poem, speech, or piece of writing may be called flowery if it uses many descriptive phrases, dramatic images, or fancy wording when a simpler style would be clearer. In this sense, the word is often slightly critical. It suggests that the style is attractive on the surface but may feel excessive or less direct.
The word can also extend beyond language. It may describe someone's appearance, manner, or taste if it seems highly decorative, bright, or showy. For example, clothes with bold floral prints or a very ornate personal style might be described this way.
So whether you are talking about a flower-filled garden or a speech with more decoration than substance, "flowery" points to something rich in ornament and detail, sometimes pleasing, sometimes excessive.
Examples
- 1
Clothing
She wore a flowery dress to the picnic.
- 2
Interior design
The guest room still has old flowery wallpaper.
- 3
Overdecorated language
The brochure is full of flowery language about "luxury" and "elegance."
Phrase
flowery language
language that sounds too decorated or formal
- 4
Insincere apology
His apology was so flowery that it didn't feel honest.
- 5
Editing style
The editor asked her to make the introduction less flowery and more direct.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- floweryadjective