ornamentalism

American  

[awr-nuh-men-tl-iz-uhm] / ˌɔr nəˈmɛn tlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the desire or tendency to feature ornament in the design of buildings, interiors, furnishings, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of ornamentalism

First recorded in 1860–65; ornamental + -ism

Example Sentences

Despite their apparent ornamentalism, there’s little doubt both women made a lasting impression on Saudi women, who would have recognized and identified with their feminine power.

From The Guardian • May 25, 2017

And a single painting by Oho at the Met, the 1830s “Autumn Maple,” sums up the fine-tuned ornamentalism and exacting realism of Hoitsu’s late style.

From New York Times • Sep. 27, 2012