Embellishment vs. Ornament — What's the Difference?

In sewing and crafts, an embellishment is anything that adds design interest to the piece.

A thing used or serving to make something look more attractive but usually having no practical purpose, especially a small object such as a figurine

The act of embellishing or the state of being embellished.

The accessories of worship, such as the altar, chalice, and sacred vessels.

Something that embellishes; a decoration.

Make (something) look more attractive by adding decorative items

(Music) A note that embellishes a melody.

Something that decorates or adorns; an embellishment.

An act of embellishing.

A person considered as a source of pride, honor, or credit

An added touch; an ornamental addition; a flourish.

(Music) A note or group of notes that embellishes a melody.

The act of adorning, or the state of being adorned; adornment.

To furnish with ornaments

That which adds beauty or elegance; ornament; decoration; as, pictorial embellishments.

To be an ornament to

Elaboration of an interpretation by the use of decorative (sometimes fictitious) detail;

An element of decoration; that which embellishes or adorns.

A superfluous ornament

A Christmas tree decoration.

The act of adding extraneous decorations to something

(music) A musical flourish that is unnecessary to the overall melodic or harmonic line, but serves to decorate that line.

The articles used in church services.

(biology) A characteristic that has a decorative function (typically in order to attract a mate)

To decorate.

To add to.

That which embellishes or adorns; that which adds grace or beauty; embellishment; decoration; adornment.

To adorn; to deck; to embellish; to beautify; as, to ornament a room, or a city.

Something used to beautify

Make more attractive by adding ornament, colour, etc.;

Be an ornament to;