What does overelaborate mean?
The word 'overelaborate' refers to something that is excessively detailed or complicated. It is often used to describe situations where too much effort has been put into making something look or feel impressive, but ultimately, it ends up being overwhelming or even ridiculous. In everyday language, 'overelaborate' is used to express a sense of disappointment or frustration when something that could have been simple is made unnecessarily complex. For example, a person might say, 'I don't need all these features on my phone; it's just overelaborate.' The word is often used in a humorous or ironic way to poke fun at situations where excess has taken over. Despite its negative connotations, 'overelaborate' can also be used to describe something that is genuinely impressive or beautiful, but in a way that is so over-the-top that it becomes comical. Overall, 'overelaborate' is a useful word for describing situations where too much is not enough.
adjective
Excessively elaborate or detailed; overly complicated or ornate.
- 1. Excessively elaborate or detailed; overly complicated or ornate.
"The overelaborate decorations in the mansion made it feel like a museum rather than a home."
"The overelaborate decorations in the mansion made it feel like a museum rather than a home."
"The company's overelaborate marketing campaign failed to impress anyone."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of overelaborate
The word 'overelaborate' is derived from the Latin words 'super' (meaning 'over' or 'above') and 'elaborare' (meaning 'to work out' or 'to elaborate'). It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe something that is excessively detailed or complicated.
Usage notes
In formal writing, 'overelaborate' is often used to describe situations where too much effort has been put into making something look or feel impressive. In informal writing, it is often used to express a sense of disappointment or frustration when something that could have been simple is made unnecessarily complex.