Corinthianize

/kəˈrɪnθiənaɪz/ verb

Definition

To make something ornate, elaborate, or excessively decorative in the style of Corinthian architecture; to add luxury or excess to something.

Etymology

From 'Corinthian,' relating to the ancient Greek city of Corinth and its architectural style, plus the verb suffix '-ize.' The Corinthian order is the most ornate of classical architecture with elaborate capitals.

Kelly Says

Corinthianize means to go over-the-top with decoration—architects in the 1800s used this word mockingly for buildings covered in so much fancy detail that you couldn't see the actual structure!

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