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Added 9 October 2026

elaborate

/ɪˈlæb.(ə.)ɹət/ verb

Latin root: ēlabōrātus Wiktionary

verb Definition from WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about elaborate at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

Add details, as to an account or idea; clarify the meaning of and discourse in a learned way, usually in writing.
She elaborated on the main ideas in her dissertation
Produce from basic elements or sources; change into a more developed product.
The bee elaborates honey
Make more complex, intricate, or richer.
refine a design or pattern

adjective

Marked by complexity and richness of detail.
an elaborate lace pattern
Developed or executed with care and in minute detail.
a detailed plan

Origin

1575, from Late Latin ēlabōrātus (“worked out”), past participle of ēlabōrō (“to work out”), from ē- (“out, forth, fully”) + labor (“work, toil, exertion”). More at e-, labour.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)

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