ornamento

ornament

noun or-nah-MEN-toh Rare

Origin: From Latin ornamentum (equipment, decoration), from ornare (to adorn)

Also means

decoration

Usage Note

Ornamento is a formal synonym of decorazione. It appears in art, architecture, music (ornamenti in Baroque music are embellishing notes), and everyday speech. The phrase essere di ornamento (to be merely decorative, to serve no practical purpose) is a common figurative expression, sometimes slightly ironic.

Examples

"Gli ornamenti natalizi decorano tutta la casa."

Natural Translation

The Christmas ornaments decorate the whole house.

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