Third person singular present tense of decorate; to add ornaments or beautiful things to make something look more attractive.
From Latin decorare (to adorn, honor, make beautiful), possibly related to decor (seemliness, dignity). The verb entered Middle English in the 14th century. The -ates suffix marks the third person singular present tense in English.
The root Latin word decorare didn't just mean 'to make pretty'—it meant 'to honor' or 'to make worthy,' suggesting that decorating something was a sign of respect. When someone decorates for a celebration today, they're unconsciously continuing this ancient idea that making something beautiful is how you show something matters.
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