Floriate

/ˈflɔːrieɪt/ verb

Definition

To decorate with floral designs or patterns; to embellish with flowers or flower-like ornaments.

Etymology

From Latin florīātus, the past participle of florīāre meaning 'to flower' or 'to embellish with flowers.' The term entered English to describe the artistic practice of adding botanical decoration to objects or designs.

Kelly Says

Medieval monks literally did this—they hand-painted gorgeous flowers and vines into the margins of manuscripts! This technique, called 'floriation,' turned words into works of art and is why old illuminated books are so expensive and beautiful.

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