frilly
Adjective: 1. Decorated with or characterized by frills: Having many small, decorative folds or a strip of gathered or pleated material used as trimming. 2. Excessively ornate or elaborate: Often used figuratively to describe language, style, or behavior that is unnecessarily showy or fussy.
The word "frilly" is used to describe physical objects, typically clothing or fabrics, that are adorned with frills. It can also be used in a more abstract, often slightly critical, way to describe non-physical things as being overly decorative or lacking in simplicity.
Describing clothing: She wore a frilly pink dress to the party. The pillowcases were edged with frilly lace.
Describing style or manner: His writing style is too frilly for a technical report. The speech was full of frilly language that obscured the main point.
- "frilly" vs. "frilled": While similar, "frilly" often implies an abundance or overall quality of having frills, whereas "frilled" typically describes something that has frills as a specific feature. (Emphasizes the overall ornate appearance.) (Focuses on the specific decorative element.)
- Frill (n): A strip of material with one side gathered or pleated, used as a decorative trim.
- Frilled (adj): Having frills.
- Unfrilly (adj): Plain, simple, without frills (often used figuratively).
- Ornate: Made in an intricate shape or decorated with complex patterns.
- Fussy: Overly elaborate or detailed.
- Lacy: Made of or resembling lace, which is often frilly.
- Ruffled: Trimmed or gathered into ruffles, which are similar to frills.
- Plain: Not decorated or elaborate; simple.
- Austere: Severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance; without luxury.
- Simple: Easily understood or done; not elaborate.
- Unadorned: Not decorated; plain.
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having decorative ruffles or frills
